How do they do it?
Each breed of cat has its own written "Standard of Perfection" which reflects the ideal for that particular breed. The cats are judged based on how closely they conform to their written standard. In addition to having good conformation, (or being "typey") the cats must also be clean, well groomed and in excellent physical cond- ition. While we do not expect the cats to perform any tricks, each cat is required to be amenable to handling by the judge.

For cats without a pedigree – that group we call the Household Pets, condition and temperament are major requirements. They must be squeaky clean, they must be in excellent condition and they must allow the judge to handle them.

Beyond that, beauty is in the eye of the beholder. Just like the people who own these cats, some judges prefer beautiful markings, some love elegant cats and some prefer a clown or a lover. Each judge you see here today is conducting his or her own individual show. Each judge will handle and physically examine each cat and kitten entered into competition and mentally compare them to their written standard. The judge may also use a toy or feather to get a better look at the cat’s eyes, ears and expression. From all of the cats entered in the days’ competition, each judge will choose approximately 10 cats, kittens, alters and household pets that, in his or her opinion, most closely fit the written standard for their breed. To make it easier, the cats are divided into many categories.

First, we divide them into long-haired cats, Kittens, Alters, Household Pets, Household Pet Kittens and New Breed or Color and Shorthaired Cats, Kittens, Alters, Household Pets and Household Pet Kittens.

Our next classification is by breed, so the judge sees all the Longhaired adult cats of one breed at the same time. To make it easier still, the judge compares all the black cats of one breed and chooses the Best through the Fifth Best color. These are the first ribbons you will see hung in the judge’s ring.

Next is the decision for Best, Second and Third of Division, based on the cat’s pattern: Solid, Tabby, Tortie, Pointed, Silver/Smoke and any pattern with white (Particolor). After all the cats are placed in color and division, the judge with declare the Best, Second and Third Best of Breed (except in Household Pet). As you see, the judge has now made several decisions that will make it easier to select which of the cats are eligible to go on to the most exciting part, the Finals.