PHOTOS BY JEFFREY LIM
CAT SHOW MILESTONES
By now, we all know that Neo is a bar-setting champion, but you are probably curious as to how a Cat would earn points to make it to the top! A typical WCF show format is divided into 3 parts: table judging, WCF rings, and Best in Show.
Feline Council of the Philippines, Inc. (FCPI) President and Cat parent Rino Paez explained to us what happens in each part of a typical WCF Show.
STAGE 1: TABLE JUDGING
Table judging is a pivotal moment where the convergence of judges and exhibitors creates an arena for the evaluation of each Cat. As the name implies, this process unfolds upon a table, giving judges the chance to examine each Cat’s distinctive features and temperament. It’s a collaborative exchange where human guardians get valuable feedback from the judges.
In Neo’s case, he generally received excellent comments on his profile, body, and color or ticking. Different judges would have different opinions, of which we learn from. There were times when we were told that Neo’s body was perfect for an Abyssinian Cat, but in other times, we were told that he needed to gain a little more mass.
Table judging isn’t merely about evaluation; it’s also a platform for recognition and achievement. Our Cat companions receive certificates and attain prestigious WCF titles. Notably, table judging isn’t exclusive to pedigreed Cats; even novices or those without pedigrees can aspire to WCF recognition, provided they meet the standards.
However, amidst the anticipation and camaraderie of table judging, one moment stands out as the pièce de résistance: the coveted NOMBIS (nominated for Best in Show).
STAGE 2: WCF RINGS
This is one of the best aspects of the Cat show experience. Here, all registered Cats, excluding those in the novice class, are sorted into distinct categories: Adult, Kitten, Junior, and Neutered.
The judges then select the top ten Cats in each category. One by one, the chosen Cats in each category are honored and celebrated, starting from the 10th place all the way up to the coveted 1st!
STAGE 3: BEST IN SHOW
Rino elaborated on the prestigious awards up for grabs: Best in Show, Best Opposite Sex, Best of Best, Best General, and Best Supreme.
Each judge independently evaluates the nominated Cats, carefully considering various factors to determine the most deserving. The show organizer tallies the judges’ scores, with the results to be unveiled in real time.
A COUNCIL FOR CAT WELFARE
FCPI was established in 2017 and is the first patronage club and full member club of the WCF in the Philippines. Aside from helping to establish a Cat registry system and hosting shows and exhibitions locally, FCPI is a strong advocate of Cat welfare.
THE CATALOG OF WCF CHAMPIONS
Neo’s championship status was not a matter of luck. He needed to get three certificates from judges of different countries, one of which should be from a different continent. That is indeed a lot of shows and countries to travel to, just for a Cat to be worthy to be called a World Champion!
NEO’S ESCAPADES
Surely, traveling to many countries would have been stressful for a royal Cat, right? Well, not really. Neo would waste no time stretching his body upon entering their hotel room and inspecting his surroundings. He would meticulously sniff every corner of the room, leaving no object unexamined, even daring to venture on top of the TV.
Despite the challenges of traveling, Neo seemed to have accustomed himself to it and to new environments quite well. He even made friends with Hitch — an adult Cat who was also present during the shows — despite their having different personalities. While Hitch sought comfort and warmth under a cozy blanket, Neo preferred to claim his spot anywhere he pleased!
Human guardian Jaime Lim is quite proud of what two-year-old Abyssinian Neo has accomplished.
