What is the GCCF? A Guide to the Governing Council of the Cat Fancy
The Governing Council of the Cat Fancy (GCCF) is the leading cat registration body in the UK, founded in 1910. The GCCF plays a crucial role in preserving the integrity and welfare of pedigree cats by enforcing strict breed standards and maintaining accurate record-keeping. This ensures that breeders adhere to guidelines that promote both genetic diversity and quality assurance in pedigree cats.
When you register your cat with the GCCF, you confirm that it meets specific breed criteria. This process ensures that the breed’s desirable characteristics are passed down to future generations. The GCCF also manages prestigious cat shows across the UK, giving breeders and owners the opportunity to showcase their cats and gain national recognition.
Another vital role of the GCCF is in promoting ethical breeding practices. The organization ensures that cats are bred responsibly, with a focus on their overall health and well-being. This dedication to high standards helps maintain the credibility and excellence of the cat fancy community in the UK.
Understanding GCCF Cat Registration: Active vs. Non-Active Status
When purchasing a pedigree cat, particularly one registered with the Governing Council of the Cat Fancy (GCCF), you’ll come across two terms: active registration and non-active registration. These terms are crucial for determining whether a cat can be bred from or is meant solely as a pet. Let’s break down the key differences between these two registration statuses.
What is Active Registration?
- Breeding Rights: Cats with active registration are allowed to be bred, and any kittens produced can be registered with the GCCF. This is a must for anyone looking to breed pedigree cats.
- Breed Standards: Cats on the active register meet specific breed standards, making them valuable contributors to preserving the integrity and genetics of the breed.
- Higher Cost: Since active registered cats have breeding rights, they are often more expensive due to their potential for future breeding.
What is Non-Active Registration?
- No Breeding Rights: Cats with non-active registration cannot be bred from, and their offspring cannot be registered with the GCCF. These cats are strictly sold as pets.
- Pet-Only: Non-active registered cats may have minor deviations from breed standards, but they make excellent companions. Breeders typically place them on the non-active register to ensure they are not bred.
- Lower Cost: These cats are generally less expensive as they do not come with the right to breed.
Why Active vs. Non-Active Registration Matters
- Quality Control: The distinction between active and non-active registration helps breeders maintain strict control over the quality and genetic health of a breed, ensuring only the best specimens are used for breeding.
- Ethical Breeding: By limiting breeding to active registered cats, the GCCF encourages responsible breeding practices and discourages indiscriminate breeding.
- Buyer Clarity: When buying a GCCF-registered cat, the active/non-active status helps clarify whether the cat is meant for breeding or as a pet.
