While at the Cat Show over the weekend, I thought I would take a few ‘behind the scenes’ images to give you an idea of what you might see at a show.  The Christmas City Cat Club show had 8 rings with 8 different judges.  All of the cats entered into the show visit each of the 8 rings and are evaluated separately by each judge.  The cats are “benched” [just like at dog shows] in an area outside of the rings where they are groomed and stay until their ring time.  The lower right image above shows some of the decorative cages set up by owners in the benching area.  Cages are also set up at each ring to house the cats while they wait for their turn to be evaluated by the judge.  Blue or pink cards [see upper left image] with the cat’s catalogue number are placed above each cage to identify the cat.  Blue cards are for males and pink cards for females.  The judges evaluate each cat against the standard for the breed.  The exception would be for the Household Pet category, where they are instead judged by condition, beauty and show presence.  Each ring has a sisal post to allow the cats to climb and toys that the judge will use to get their attention.  [see top right image above]  After each cat has been evaluated on the judging table, the judge cleans the table with cat-safe disinfectant.  Cages in the rings are also cleaned with disinfectant after each use.  The bottom left image above shows the 5th best kitten playing with her ribbon!  Of course there are also PLENTY of cats to see at the show and visitors have an opportunity to meet the owners and learn about the breeds.  Below is a British Shorthair who traveled all the way from Florida for this show.  This kitty has an inground swimming pool that is completely enclosed in netting and he and his brothers and sisters get to relax by the pool when not in the show ring!  They even swim!  How cool is that!