This is what normally happens on the show day. But it can go so wrong.
When you arrive at the show hall follow the signs to Vetting In where you will probably find a queue of exhibitors. Look for a notice which will tell you of any last minute judge changes – if you are showing an adult with one or more challenge certificates you can ask the Show Manager to arrange for a countersignature if the change would duplicate an existing certificate. Paperwork at shows varies but you will be given some form of vetting in card for the vet to sign, have this, and your vaccination certificate, ready to give to the vet. If you have prepared your cat carefully all should be well; if unhappily your cat is refused entry to the show make sure that the Duty Vet explains why your cat has been rejected and what you must do next.
Once inside the hall find your pen and get your cat settled in, judging normally starts at 10am so you should have time to offer a little food if your cat is hungry but you must take the bowl out before judging, leaving only the water bowl. It often pays to keep the best blanket until the last minute or you may find it covered with the contents of the litter tray.
Always check your pen before you leave the hall to make sure it is clean and tidy. When you leave the hall you will be able to buy your catalogue – check your entry details carefully and go to the Show Manager at once if anything is incorrect. When you return to the hall check your cat and feed it if you wish. You may also now give it a small toy to play with. If you have not already done so, find the results boards to see how well your cat has done. Results slips will go up throughout the day and some Breed class results may appear quite late if that Judge has many to judge, so do not be too impatient. However, if your Breed class has not appeared by 3pm you should ask at the show manager’s table in case it has been overlooked or mislaid. Other classes will appear later, sometimes right up to the close of the show.
Once you get home make sure your cat is comfortable; it will have been a hard day for you all. It is wise not to allow all your cats to mix with the show cat for a few days until any danger of infection is past, if this is possible without upsetting the cat.
You can spend the next few days congratulating your pet whether it won or not!