Conditions
What does the term “condition” mean? “Condition” reflects the entire cat. Diet, care, environment, and genetics all play crucial roles in a cat’s growth, and every aspect of the cat reflects the outcomes of these important factors.
Physical Condition
Show cats should be in prime physical condition.
Cleanliness and Presentation
Show cats should be impeccably clean. Grooming should enhance the cat’s beauty and emphasize the nature of the breed.
Temperament
With a well – balanced temperament, show cats should accept the judging process. A calm and stable personality enhances the cat and allows the judge to evaluate and showcase the cat’s best advantages.
Appearance
General health and vitality are reflected by clear eyes, a shiny coat, and an alert appearance. In movement, the cat will display the characteristic grace and beauty inherent to the breed.
As the exhibit is handled by the judge, his hands can detect the size and shape of the skeletal structure, muscle tone, and the cat’s basic form. The whole is equal to the sum of its parts.
Feline Structure
To embody the aesthetic qualities of beauty, grace, and agility in cats, the ideal show cat reflects good health and a sound structure.
Structural variations help to distinguish and differentiate pedigreed cat breeds. Although the standards of individual breeds sometimes describe unusual physical features, the ideal show cat does not have any features that, whether exaggerated or otherwise, cause discomfort or harm to its health and well – being.
Head
A mature skull, whether long – headed, medium – headed, or short – headed, is smooth, without unwanted depressions or protrusions. The eyes are bright and clear, and their movements are coordinated. Breathing is effortless. The mouth is closed with a proper bite. The face and jaw are symmetrical and aligned.
Skeletal Framework
The skeletal framework, regardless of being small, medium, or large in size, is functionally symmetrical and balanced. There is no fixation or deviation in the vertical direction. The spine is flexible, and the joints are supple. The legs are parallel, fully supporting the weight and movement.
Body Conformation
Regardless of whether the body is short or long, round or tubular, the contour is smooth, with a gentle outward curve from the chest to a soft, continuous line along the abdomen. Well – developed muscles in the shoulders, mid – section, and hindquarters reflect the strength and compatibility of the body form.
Conclusion
Never forget that a cat is a living, breathing, moving being. A sound structure and function are integral parts of the aesthetic pursuit.
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