Frequently Asked Questions2024-11-08T16:14:37+01:00

On this page you will find Frequently Asked Questions organized by category. Please select the main topic first before searching for your question.

How does my cat become a champion?2024-10-27T09:50:08+01:00

If your cat is successful at multiple shows, you can earn titles such as Champion or International Champion by earning CACs and CACIBs, which can be registered.

Why should I show my cat?2024-10-21T12:15:31+02:00

Showing helps you learn more about your cat and how it is judged by different judges. It can help with breeding, choosing the right mate for your cat, and getting contacts for future kittens.

How will the results be announced?2024-10-21T12:14:49+02:00

After the judging, the results will be kept secret for a while. Later, prizes and ribbons will be awarded for the Best Cats in various categories.

What does “Best in Show” mean?2024-10-24T15:57:26+02:00

Best in Show is an award for the best cat of a specific variety or breed at the show. Each judge can make nominations for different categories such as Best male, Best female, and Best neuter.

How does the inspector’s inspection proceed?2024-10-21T12:13:48+02:00

The judge will evaluate your cat for breed standard, beauty, and any features such as color and markings. The results will be announced later.

What happens during the veterinary examination?2024-10-21T12:13:07+02:00

The veterinarian will check that your cat is healthy and free of parasites or diseases. You must bring your vaccination booklet for this check.

Does my cat need to be vaccinated to participate in a show?2024-10-21T12:12:24+02:00

Yes, your cat must be vaccinated against feline distemper and sneezing disease at least two weeks before the show. A rabies vaccination is also required for international shows.

What all should I bring to a show?2024-10-21T12:11:50+02:00
  • Proof of enrollment and proof of payment, if any
  • Vaccination booklet
  • Food bowl, water bowl, and possibly food
  • Cat litter box (grit is often provided by the organization)
  • Ground cover for the cage (e.g., bath towel, pillow)
  • Curtains for the cage
  • Cat grooming supplies (for the final touch before inspection)
  • Travel basket and possibly a blanket for cold weather.
Can I sit next to someone else on the show?2024-10-21T12:11:19+02:00

Yes, if you would like to sit next to a friend or breeder, please indicate that on the registration form. Be sure to provide the correct name and hometown if applicable for clarity.

Can I bring my own cage?2024-10-21T12:10:46+02:00

Yes, you can bring your own “sturdi. Please do indicate the width of the sturdi on the registration form, especially if it is a larger cage.

Which class should I tick for my cat?2024-10-21T12:09:25+02:00

It depends on your cat’s age and status:

  • 3-6 months: for kittens of that age
  • 6-10 months: for older kittens
  • Open Class (CAC): for adult uncastrated cats over 10 months of age
  • Neuter class (CAP): for neutered or spayed cats.
How do I register my cat for a show?2024-10-21T12:08:15+02:00

You can register through your association’s show calendar (e.g. Neocat) by carefully filling out the registration form. Be sure to enter your membership number and the correct details of your cat’s pedigree.

Do cats hate being in a cage all day?2024-10-21T12:07:26+02:00

No, most cats get used to this quickly, especially if they are shown regularly from a young age. Many cats sleep, relax, or even play during a show.

Do I have to participate in shows if I buy a pedigree cat?2024-10-21T12:06:51+02:00

No, participation in shows is completely optional. Many people decide to participate later, even if they initially thought they would never do it.

How do I get a pedigree for my cat?2024-10-21T11:56:16+02:00

You receive the breeder’s pedigree when you buy a pedigree cat. The breeder registers the litter with a recognized breed association, which issues the pedigrees.

What is a pedigree and why is it important?2024-10-21T11:55:14+02:00

A pedigree is an official document that shows a cat’s ancestry, going back several generations. It guarantees that a cat is purebred and is essential for those who want to breed or participate in shows.

How does chip registration work?2024-10-21T11:53:56+02:00

A small microchip is placed under your cat’s skin. This chip contains a unique number that is linked to your contact information in a database. It is important to keep the information in the database up-to-date.

Is it mandatory to chip my cat?2024-10-21T11:53:30+02:00

There is no obligation to chip, passport and register cats born in the Netherlands. However, it is recommended. A missing cat that is chipped and registered with a designated portal is then easier to reunite with its owner.

When can I have my cat mated?2024-10-21T11:49:05+02:00

Cats usually cannot be mated until they are physically mature, which is around 1 year of age. It is important that the female cat is in good health first and has undergone all necessary medical tests. It is recommended to use Neocat’s health check for breeding (opens in new tab).

What should I think about if I want to breed with my cat?2024-10-21T11:44:06+02:00

Breeding requires knowledge of genetics, the breed and health. You must understand pedigrees properly, select for health and character, and be willing to invest time and money. You must also comply with breed association rules and obtain breeding certificates if necessary.

How can I rehome my cat?2024-10-21T11:43:01+02:00

You can contact a shelter or the original breeder for rehoming assistance. SOK of Neocat also offers rehoming services. We make sure your cat ends up in a good and suitable home. Click here for more information

When is rehoming a cat necessary?2024-10-21T11:30:53+02:00

Rehoming may be necessary if allergies develop, when moving to a place where pets are not allowed, or if the cat develops behavioral problems that are difficult to control. Always arrange for responsible rehoming through breed associations or shelters.

How do I keep my cat’s teeth healthy?2024-10-21T11:29:45+02:00

Regular tooth brushing helps prevent plaque and gum disease. Special cat toothpastes and brushes are available. In addition, feeding dry food also helps with dental care.

How often should I take my cat to the vet?2024-10-21T11:28:57+02:00

Kittens should see the veterinarian several times for vaccinations and checkups in their first year of life. For adult cats, annual checkups are recommended to keep up with their health and vaccinations.

Should I bathe my cat?2024-10-21T11:26:01+02:00

Cats are generally very clean and do not need to be bathed often. Long-haired breeds may need an occasional bath if their coats get greasy, but for most cats a bath is not necessary unless they are very dirty.

How often should I brush my kitten?2024-10-21T11:24:41+02:00

This depends on the breed. Shorthaired breeds such as the Siamese and Oriental Shorthair need to be brushed only occasionally. Long-haired breeds such as the Balinese and Mandarin should be brushed at least once a week to prevent tangles.

What is the behavior of an Oriental Shorthair?2024-10-21T11:19:12+02:00

Oriental Shorthairs are playful, active and enormously social. They are very attached to their owners and can even become jealous if they receive too little attention. Like Siamese, they are vocal and love human company.

What is the temperament of a Mandarin?2024-10-21T11:18:35+02:00

Mandarins are active, playful and loyal. They love company and can be rambunctious at times. Their playful nature means they like to be entertained, and they form strong bonds with their families.

What kind of character does a Thai have?2024-10-21T11:17:24+02:00

The Thai has a balanced character; they are playful, social and affectionate without being overbearing. They love human attention but can also play well alone. Thai cats are clever problem solvers and are usually very curious.

What is the character of a Balinese?2024-10-21T11:16:54+02:00

Balinese are similar to Siamese but generally a little calmer. They are sweet, playful and very intelligent. They have silky fur and love human company. They are also very vocal, but slightly softer than the Siamese.

What is the character of a Siamese?2024-10-21T11:16:10+02:00

Siamese are known for their lively, social and vocal personalities. They are very affectionate and love interacting with their owners. Siamese can be demanding and thrive in households where they receive a lot of attention.

What should I take care of before taking in a kitten?2024-10-21T11:09:23+02:00

Make sure you have a litter box, toys, a scratching post, food, and a place to sleep. You should also schedule a vet visit for a general health check and vaccinations.

What does a pedigreed kitten cost?2024-10-21T11:08:51+02:00

The price of a pedigree kitten can vary depending on the breed and pedigree. The price is usually between €800 and €1500, but can be higher for rarer colors or bloodlines.

How do I find a reliable breeder?2024-10-21T11:08:16+02:00

You can contact a breed association or find reliable breeders through kitten mediation. Visit the breeder in person, ask about the health history of the parent animals and pay attention to the cats’ living conditions.

At what age is a kitten allowed to leave its mother?2024-10-21T11:06:56+02:00

Kittens should not be separated from their mothers until 13-14 weeks of age. This is important for their socialization and health. They must also be fully vaccinated before going to their new home.

Where can I purchase a kitten?2024-10-21T11:06:17+02:00

You can buy a kitten from a licensed breeder or through a breed association. It is important to buy through reliable sources to ensure that the kitten is in good health and correctly socialized.

How will the proposed measures be enforced?2024-10-17T12:07:48+02:00

Member states are responsible for enforcing the rules and must report on animal welfare every three years. They must also establish a national database of chipped dogs and cats and make public the list of approved breeding facilities.

May member states apply stricter rules than the proposed EU rules?2024-10-17T12:07:29+02:00

Yes, member states can enforce stricter national rules regarding housing, mutilations and breeding programs. However, EU rules will ensure a minimum standard.

Will the Commission better regulate online pet sales?2024-10-17T12:07:07+02:00

Yes, the rules will allow consumers to verify the identification of pets advertised online. Online platforms will be required to provide information on animal identification and registration.

How can consumers check that the dogs and cats they buy comply with EU rules?2024-10-17T12:05:08+02:00

Dogs and cats must be microchipped and registered before being sold. Consumers can verify identification through a system that automatically verifies registration.

What measures is the Commission taking to address illegal trade?2024-10-17T12:04:45+02:00

It proposes measures such as mandatory identification and registration of dogs and cats, approval of breeding farms and improved animal welfare rules for transport. The proposed measures should ensure better compliance and stiffer penalties for violators.

Is there evidence of illegal trade in dogs and cats?2024-10-17T12:04:26+02:00

Yes, a coordinated EU action has shown that illegal trade is common. Abuses such as inappropriate transport conditions and document fraud have been discovered. Most illegal animals come from countries such as Romania and Hungary, with non-EU countries such as Russia and Turkey as important countries of origin.

Will pet owners be affected by this proposal?2024-10-17T12:04:05+02:00

No, the rules apply only to breeders, sellers, pet stores and shelters. Individual owners of a small number of animals are not covered by the regulations. However, those who want to provide a dog or cat must make sure it is microchipped.

What are the key elements of the proposal for dog and cat welfare?2024-10-17T12:03:44+02:00

The proposal includes uniform welfare standards such as minimum space, access to natural light, and a ban on cages. Breeding practices will be regulated, with restrictions on breeding frequency and inbreeding. Animals must be microchipped and registered, and there will be a free system to verify identification. Suppliers must also ensure knowledge of responsible pet ownership among future owners.

What issues need to be addressed regarding dogs and cats in the EU?2024-10-17T12:03:22+02:00

The lucrative dog and cat market attracts unscrupulous operators who keep animals in poor conditions, often without proper medical care. About 60% of pets are purchased online, making it difficult to verify their origin. The illegal trade, often involving animals from countries with lower welfare standards, poses serious risks to animal welfare and public health.

Why is the Commission proposing new dog and cat welfare rules?2024-10-18T11:54:48+02:00

Dogs and cats are important pets for EU citizens, with more than 72 million dogs and 83 million cats in the EU. The value of sales of these pets amounts to €1.3 billion annually. High prices and sustained demand create illegal practices that threaten the welfare of these animals. Current EU legislation does not provide sufficient protection, mainly because the rules vary widely between member states. The new rules aim to create a level playing field and improve the welfare of dogs and cats.

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