Fast CAT
The purpose of the AKC Fast CAT® event is to provide all dogs and their owners with an enjoyable, healthy activity in which they can participate.
Fast CAT®—which stands for Fast Coursing Ability Test—is a timed 100-yard dash where dogs run one at a time, chasing a lure. It’s over before you know it, and it’s nothing short of awe-inspiring to watch your dog run at top speed, ears back, eyes focused, legs flying.
A relatively new sport, its popularity has spread like wildfire. No wonder. According to one AKC official, “The Fast CAT® provides a terrific opportunity to introduce new participants to the world of AKC sports as one of the few events where all that is needed to compete is a dog’s instincts.”
Coursing Ability Test (CAT)
Similar to FastCat, the Coursing Ability Test (CAT) is designed specifically for newcomers. The first thing to know about the CAT is that – as with all of AKC’s tests – dogs do not compete against each other. Each dog runs individually and chases after an artificial lure on either a 300- or 600-yard long course. Your dog must finish in less than 1 ½ minutes and 2 minutes, respectively. Because the course is for beginners, it is set up with safety in mind, as we recognize that many of the dogs are new to the sport and might not possess the agility of an experienced sighthound.
Don’t worry about being judged: Dogs only earn a pass/fail, and the maximum time is not meant to be difficult to achieve. But yes, your dog will need to run, not walk, to earn a passing grade. But even if he doesn’t do his best, don’t worry! Think of it as just a fun day out for both of you to meet other dogs and dog lovers.
