FAQ on showing rats

What is a rat show?

Rat shows are basically like dog or cat shows. The club or organisation holding the show has a set of predetermined standards by which the rats are judged. Judges evaluate each animal according  to these standards and award prizes to the rat which is the closest representative of the standard for that particular class of rat.

Why should I visit a rat show?

Anyone interested in rats gain a lot by visiting a rat show. It gives you the opportunity to meet people in person with the same interest as you, to chat about rats and to find out about the general rat related events in your area. You also have the golden opportunity to ask questions and advice from other experienced rat owners. At some shows rat related products will be offered for sale and if you are looking for a specific rare rat variety, a show is a good place to meet people who may breed your desired variety or who can direct you to someone else who does. Apart from the human interaction, you can view other people's rats at a show. A show is also the best place to see a large number of different rat varieties/colours and what they look like in real life.

Are rat shows for all ages ?

Yes, absolutely. It does not matter if you are at school, working or retired. Everyone is welcome. You may even bring a friend or family along with you to the show.

Should I bother to enter my rat into the show ?

Yes, absolutely.  At the South African Rat Fan Club anypet rat may be entered in either the pet or show classes.   Previously we got the impression that some owners do not think that their rat is "good" enough or pedigreed enough to be entered into a show. Just because your rat is not a pedigreed rat or does not meet the standards exactly, it doesn't mean that he or she will not be the closest to meeting the standard :oD   In any particular show category, the rat that will win will be the one that is the closest to meeting that standard.  You will you ever know if you do not enter your rat (and just remember, if your rat is pedigreed or not, it does not matter at our rat shows). Let the judges decide what your rat's best physical qualities are.  Take this opportunity  to ask the judges (after the judging event) what they think of your rat's appearance (colouring/markings).. 


© The South African Rat Fan Club (est. June 2005)