I have divided the FAQs into two sections, those usually asked by the general public, and those often posed by the CFA Breeder/Exhibitor.

If you have a question for me, please drop me a line. I answer all questions promptly.

GENERAL PUBLIC FAQS

Q. I've heard about CFA Cat Shows, and I'd like to go to one! How can I find out where the next one in my area will be held?

A: Look no further than this website! Our Region Five Show Schedule on this site should provide you with the information you need. It currently is divided into two sections: The Master Show Calendar and the Licensed Shows. The Master Show Calendar lists the clubs that traditionally put on a show on a particular date. It does not say where that show will be, nor is it in fact a guarantee that the club will be putting on a show that year. Of more use to you as a spectator is the portion of the webpage listing the Licensed Shows. If you need more information about a particular licensed show, please call the entry clerk listed for that event. We hope to see you at a CFA Cat Show! We know you won't be disappointed!

Q. I have a cat I'd like to enter in a CFA cat show but I don't know what I'll need or what to do. How do I find out?

A. If you have a pedigreed cat, I suggest you contact your Breeder for information. They may be delighted to hear you would like to show, and happy to "mentor" you. If you did not get your cat from someone in this area, or the breeders are otherwise unavailable, you'll find valuable information on your first show on the CFA Website. You are also welcome to contact me, and perhaps I can put you in touch with someone in your new Breed who can "bench" with you and show you "the ropes." We have many Exhibitors who would be delighted to help a show hall "newbie." If you have a non-pedigreed household pet you are interested in showing, I suggest you call the Valley Vista Household Pet Registry at (619) 267-4732. This service is provided by George and Kim Eigenhauser, who would be pleased to get you started in showing your household pet. The Valley Vista Household Pet Registry also has a helpful brochure that should answer most of your questions about showing your household pet.

CFA BREEDER/EXHIBITOR FAQS

Q: How can I become a member of CFA?

A: The actual members of CFA are the nearly 700 approved clubs, located worldwide. Each club gets one vote in each election of officers, and at the annual meeting of the CFA delegates. There is no direct individual membership in CFA. Individuals who are interested in having a voice in the affairs of our association, are urged to join a CFA member club.

Q: How do I join a club?

A: I recommend that you begin by taking some time exhibiting your cat and getting to know other exhibitors. As you do so, you no doubt will begin to hear about the various clubs other exhibitors may be in. Perhaps one of your new show hall friends will be pleased to sponsor you in their club! If you have questions as to the clubs in the Southwest Region, take a look at the link to the list of Region 5 clubs and club secretaries. If there is a particular club you are interested in, feel free to call the club secretary to check on whether or not they are currently accepting new members. Remember though, a club is a private and voluntary association of individuals. You would usually be more successful in getting to know some people already in a club who can sponsor you, than you would to call and inquire of a club where no one knows you. That being said, remember: nothing ventured, nothing gained! Many clubs are eager to admit "new blood" particularly if they are a show-producing club with work to be done!

Q: When is the next CFA Board of Directors meeting? There is an issue of interest to me I believe is coming up, and I want to know how to make my voice heard.

A. The CFA Board of Directors has three (3) regular meetings each year; once in February, again at the Annual in June, and each October. The exact dates and locations are published in the CFA Almanac. The February meeting is highlighted by the consideration of new Breed Standard changes proposed by the various Breed Councils. The October meeting finds the Board considering Show Rule changes, and other resolutions passed by the delegates at the June Annual. At each of the three meetings the Board will also be considering new club applications, judging program applicants and candidates for advancement, Protest hearings, and the general business of the Corporation. Your Regional Director is your elected representative before the Board. I'd be pleased to hear from you at any time on any matter of concern to you. When I hear from you and know how our Region feels on the issues facing us, I am best able to act as your representative.

Regina Shaffer, CFA Southwest Regional Director