Here is a list of common terms used at cat shows or about show cats.

CAT FANCY [FANCIER] = any cat enthusiast    

BENCHING CAGE = where you must leave your cat when not in the ring.

OPEN CLASS = for unaltered pedigree cats over 8 months of age, not yet a champion.

CHAMPIONSHIP CLASS = for unaltered pedigree cats over 8 months already a champion

GRAND CHAMPION = pedigree unaltered cats who have achieved the next level of competition after champion.

PREMIER = equivalent to champion, but in an altered pedigree cat.

GRAND PREMIER = equivalent to grand champion but in an altered pedigree cat

ALTER = name given to any neutered cat

HOUSEHOLD PET [HHP] = any cat randomly bred. Non-pedigree.

KITTEN = category for pedigree cats between 4 and 8 months of age, whole or neutered.

ANY OTHER VARIETY [AOV] = a pedigree cat who does not conform to the standard of the breed.

EXHIBITOR = the person showing the cat

SHOW STANDARD = written description showing the ideal of the breed, and against which all that breed are judged by. Different bred organizations may have slightly different standards for each breed.

NEUTER = male cat who has been castrated

SPAY = female cat who has had her reproductive organs removed

ALLBREED JUDGE = judges all cats regardless of length of fur. (Shorthairs and Long hairs)

SPECIALTY JUDGE = judges cats according to coat length. (Either Shorthair or Longhair)