Cat Shows in Sweden (FIFe Affiliated)

Cat Shows in Sweden

Cat shows in Sweden are organised by SVERAK-affiliated clubs under the rules of FIFe (Fédération Internationale Féline). They are a wonderful way to meet breeders, discover new breeds, and celebrate the beauty and diversity of cats – whether you are an exhibitor, a breeder or simply a cat enthusiast.

Who Can Participate?

Both pedigree cats and domestic cats (huskatter) can participate in Swedish cat shows. Pedigree cats compete within their breed and are judged against the FIFe breed standard. Domestic cats compete in a separate category and are judged on overall impression, condition and temperament. All cats must be vaccinated and in good health to enter.

Ways to Get Involved

There are several ways to participate in the cat show world – you don’t have to be an exhibitor to be part of it:

  • Exhibitor: Enter your own cat and compete for grades, critiques and titles. A great way to get feedback on your cat from licensed judges and connect with other enthusiasts.
  • Breeder: Shows are an important part of responsible breeding. Exhibiting your cats allows you to benchmark them against the breed standard, network with other breeders and gain visibility for your cattery.
  • Visitor: Anyone can attend a cat show as a visitor. It’s a fantastic opportunity to see many breeds up close, meet breeders and find out more about cats you’re interested in.
  • Volunteer: Shows rely on volunteers to run smoothly. Roles include ring stewards (assisting judges), registration helpers, setup and breakdown crew, and general show assistants. Contact the organising club to find out how to get involved.
  • Club member: Joining a SVERAK-affiliated club is the best way to stay informed about upcoming shows, get early access to entry forms and be part of the community that organises events.

How Are Cats Judged?

At FIFe shows, cats are judged individually by licensed judges who assess each cat against the official breed standard. Cats receive a written critique and a grade. The highest-graded cats in each category compete for titles such as Best in Show. Judges do not handle all cats simultaneously – each cat is assessed separately at the judging table, which helps keep the experience calm for the cats.

Titles and Certificates

Cats can earn titles through show results, including Champion, International Champion, Grand International Champion, and the prestigious title of Supreme Grand International Champion. Each title requires a set number of certificates (CAC or CAGCIB) awarded by different judges at different shows.

How to Enter a Show

Shows are organised by individual SVERAK-affiliated clubs. To enter, you register directly with the organising club, usually via their website. Entry deadlines are typically several weeks before the show date. Your cat must be registered in a recognised stud book (for pedigree cats) or entered as a domestic cat. Make sure vaccinations are up to date before registering.

How to Prepare Your Cat for a Show

Preparation starts well before show day. Here are the key steps:

  • Vaccinations: Ensure all vaccinations are current and bring documentation to the show. Most shows require vaccinations to be no more than one year old.
  • Health check: Your cat must be in good health. Cats showing signs of illness, parasites or skin conditions will not be admitted.
  • Grooming: A well-presented coat makes a strong impression. Start grooming regularly well in advance – brushing, bathing and coat conditioning all contribute to a show-ready appearance. For longhaired breeds, bathing a few days before the show helps the coat settle. Nails should be clipped shortly before the show.
  • Socialisation: Cats that are comfortable being handled by strangers and staying in a show pen will have a much calmer experience. Practise handling your cat regularly and, if possible, visit a show as a spectator first so your cat can get used to the environment.
  • Show equipment: You will need a show pen (cage), which you can decorate with a curtain and bedding. Bring food, water, a litter tray, familiar toys and any comfort items your cat enjoys.
  • Paperwork: Bring your cat’s pedigree, vaccination record and registration documents. Check the specific requirements of the organising club in advance.

Grooming for Cat Shows

Presentation plays an important role at cat shows. A clean, well-groomed coat not only looks impressive but also reflects the overall health and condition of your cat – both of which judges take into account.

  • Start early: Build a regular grooming routine well before the show season. Frequent brushing and combing keeps the coat tangle-free and in good condition year-round.
  • Bathing: Most show cats are bathed before a show. The timing depends on the coat type – longhaired breeds are typically bathed 2–4 days before the show to allow the coat to settle and gain volume, while shorthaired breeds can be bathed 1–2 days before. Hairless cats should be bathed shortly before the show as their skin oils accumulate quickly.
  • Shampoo and conditioning: Use shampoos and conditioners formulated for the specific coat type. Colour-enhancing shampoos can intensify coat colour for show cats and are permitted under FIFe rules as they use natural pigments rather than dyes. Degreasing shampoos are useful for oily coats or stud tail.
  • Drying: Thorough drying is essential. Use a professional dryer and brush the coat out while drying to achieve maximum volume and a smooth finish.
  • Nail clipping: Nails must be clipped before the show. This is both a requirement and a courtesy to the judges who handle the cats.
  • No prohibited products: Under FIFe rules, the use of substances that alter the natural appearance of the coat – such as hairspray, chalk, dyes or texturising products – is not permitted and may result in disqualification.
  • Professional grooming: Many exhibitors use professional groomers in the lead-up to shows. We offer show preparation grooming including baths, coat treatments and nail clipping. View our services or book at Boka Direkt.

Find Upcoming Shows

A calendar of upcoming cat shows in Sweden is published on the SVERAK website. Individual clubs also announce their shows on their own websites and social media channels.

Find shows on sverak.se

Useful Links

Cat clubs in Sweden
Breed rings in Sweden
FIFe – Fédération Internationale Féline