FastCAT 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 strong. And if your dog is really fast, you might earn bragging rights. Although it is 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 natural instincts.”
Getting Started
Your first step to learn about FAST CAT® is to call or visit your a local AKC club and see if they offer one or both of the two types of tests: Lure Coursing or the Coursing Ability Test. You can also ask to speak with someone who has already taken part in FAST CAT® as they would be more than happy to share their expertise with you.
Then it’s very easy to participate: Just fill out an entry form that you can get from your local AKC club’s premium list.
Eligibility
To participate in FAST CAT®, your dog must be:
- At least 12 months of age.
- In both excellent physical and mental condition and up-to-date on all inoculations and health check-up.
In addition:
- Spayed and neutered dogs are eligible to compete in these events and are welcome. Blind dogs are not eligible.
- No dog can compete if it is taped or bandaged or in any way has anything attached to it for medical purposes.
- Dogs of these breeds with Conditional registration are not eligible to participate.
- Dogs with Limited Registration are eligible to participate.
An inspection committee will also inspect each dog for lameness and fitness to compete.
Getting an AKC Number
Select the AKC licensing process that best fits your needs:
Purebred Dogs
All-American Dogs (mixed breed)
Purebred dogs that cannot be fully registered:
Purebred Alternative Listing (PAL) program,
Breeds on the road to full AKC recognition:
Foundation Stock Service®(FSS)
AKC Fast CAT Titles
(suffixes)
BCAT - BCAT
DCAT - DCAT
FCAT# - FCAT