Origins :

Almost certainly traces its ancestry from the African Wild Cat Felis Lybia Ocreata. More recently It was known they were being bred in continental Europe before the 2nd World War.. however by the end of the war few remained and they were close to extinction. They were rescued by a Russian Princess by the name of Nathalie Troubletsky. When emigrating to USA from Italy she took a few cats of Italian and Egyptian Origin. Subsequently, the line was developed in North America. This breed arrived in the UK in 1998.There was another line of cats called “Egyptian Mau” that was bred in the UK, but the two should not be confused. This second line was bred from Siamese cats and is now officially called Spotted Tabbies.

Physical Appearance:

This is a a medium sized cat, very elegant in its stance and has a striking resemblance to cats in ancient Egyptian art. They have an exotic spotted pattern to their coats and what is often describes as a “worried facial expression”. They are defined by their large gooseberry green eyes and they should have an “M” pattern in their fur over their forehead. There are three colours: Silver; Bronze; and Smoke (or jet black).

Personality:

The Egyptian Mau is an intelligent cat. He is quick to learn where his food and toys are kept and how to open doors etc. They adore toys and enjoy playing fetch. They are an intensely social animal, get on well with other cats and bond well with people.

Availability:

This breed is rare and records suggest only 500 kittens are born worldwide a year. They are very rare in Britain and if you want one there is likely to be a long waiting list. Claim to Fame:The Egyptian Mau is said to have the fastest reflexes of all cats.

Popularity: 60% [?]

Popularity: 15% [?]

The obvious essential is to ensure your cat is looking in tip-top condition. This means grooming; cutting nails and even maybe bathing (ouch!) Make sure you can transport safely. One product we have found very useful, if your cat does not enjoy travelling, is Feliway Pheromones spray. This has proved to be very effective in calming Louie (our red Somali) and his nerves. It is sprayed in the car and also in the cat box. Another useful tip is to take tha cats favourite toy cushion or blanket for the car.

As your cat will be at the show all day you will need a provision of food, litter and water. Dustbins are plentiful at the show to get rid of any waste.

Keeping your cat safe

It is useful to have signs on your cats cage such as “Do not feed” or “Do not touch”. Quite easy to make up they can also usually be bought at the show. It is also worth thinking about whether your cat would be happier in a single cage or a double cage. Double cages are double the size of a single (and so cost more) and are usually used for special exhibits. But if your cat is likely to find a small area difficult to deal with for a whole day (if so should you be there at all?) would a double cage make things easier?

Any color, so long as its white…

There are strict rules about what can actually be placed in the cage. In short, every thing must be WHITE. This is so the judges cannot recognise any of the entrants from known toys or special dishes etc and so impartiality is ensured. You therefore need to acquire these white items: a food bowl; a water bowl; a litter tray; and white floor covering (usually a blanket). Anything (including food) other than these items must be taken out of the cage before the judging begins. The white items are again usually available in the stalls at the show but for safety sake it is a good idea to buy beforehand in rediness.

What will the judges do?

The judges will handle the cats in order to make their decisions. They are always gentle and skilled but it will be probably different to what your cat has experienced. So to prepare your cat it is a good idea to get him used to being handled. Before the show make sure you are picking him up every day. Some people have found wearing a white coat (as the judges do) is also useful to help him get used to the experience. When we showed Louie for the first time we were lucky enough to know a judges assistant who gave us an idea of how the judge is likely to hold the cat. They may pick him up and hold him long-wise under the belly, look into his face to distinguish face marking; pick up his paws to check feet etc.

A visit to the vets just before the show is also imperative. It will ensure he is well enough to be seen and not a danger to other cats. Vaccinations can be brought up to date. Your Vaccination history card must be taken to the show. With all the things that need to be taken it is a good idea to pack a bag the night before rather than rushing around frantically in the morning.

Popularity: 17% [?]

Physical Appearance:

The average male will reach a weight of between 13 and 22lbs and females are usually half this size. Like most well-kept cats they have an average lifespan of between 15 and 20 years. They are classed as a semi-long haired cat and carry a thick and long coat. There tails are magnificently bushy.

Well I Never!:

The Norwegian Forest has a trick up its sleeve that no other cat can do. He can climb down trees head first. This breed loves climbing so keep an eye out!

Take into account:

This breed is a big cat and so will need the room and space and climbing areas to feel good . If he has not got this he is likely to get bored and has known to become a little destructive. Because of his coat he will need regular grooming. Especially in the spring, when he begins to moult his winter fur. Due to his even temperement he gets on well with children and other pets. History: After the different varieties interbred, the harsh Norwegian weather ensured that only those cats with the most rugged coats survived. First imported into Britain in 1987. First Championship in 1997.

Appearance:

Come in most colours except for seal-point and lilac. They are classed as semi-longhaired cats. They grow quite large and are distinguished by thier huge bushy tails.

Personality:

Intelligent, fearless and lively. Can get on well wiith dogs and children.

Popularity: 21% [?]