What is TICA?

What is TICA?  TICA stands for The International Cat Association

TICA or The International Cat Association was formed in 1979 in Missouri.  According to TICA's website, they claim to the the worlds largest genetic registry of pedigree cats.

The main goal of TICA is to register the pedigrees of breeds of cats as well as to license, organize and oversee cat shows around the world.  They also establish breed standards.  The breed standards between CFA the Cat Fanciers' Association and TICA are very similar but may vary slightly.  However, their standards are close in what is acceptable.

Per TICA's website, TICA's information, mission and objectives are as follows:

TICA is the world's largest genetic registry of pedigreed cats, and the world's largest registry of household pets. TICA is also the only registry in the cat fancy and dog fancy that continues to have steady growth in our number of registrations around the world, and we continue to grow in the number of members, clients and catteries on every continent. We recognize more new breeds than other cat fancy Association, and our household pets compete for the same titles and awards as pedigreed cats. TICA also ensures the future of the cat fancy through our Junior Exhibitors Program and Mentoring Program by pairing experienced TICA Members/Breeders to mentor new exhibitors and breeders.

The strength of TICA lies in its members. Breeders, exhibitors, and cat lovers are invited to join TICA and participate in the most progressive registry in the world. Our members are entitled to vote on all issues which shape the Association. Clubs do not vote in TICA. Members are also entitled to belong to breed sections of their choice and may be eligible to be an elected officer.

TICA's Mission

• The registration of the pedigrees of all breeds of felines and catteries who adhere to TICA’s specific criteria.
• The promulgation of rules governing the management of the Association and cat shows licensed by the Association;
• The licensing of cat shows held under the auspices of the Association.
• The establishment of comprehensive Standards for all breeds of domesticated cats.
• The honoring of outstanding felines, their owners and breeders for their accomplishments.
• The dissemination of valuable information to promote the knowledge and interest of cat owner’s community, breeders, exhibitors, and the general public concerning the breeding, exhibition and improvement of breeds, and the care and welfare of all cats; and,
• The promotion of science-based studies, educational and friendly relations between cat owners in this country and all other countries of the world.

TICA's Objectives

• The registration of the pedigrees of all breeds of felines and catteries;
• The promulgation of rules governing the management of the Association and cat shows sanctioned by the Association;
• The licensing of cat shows held under the auspices of the Association;
• The establishment of comprehensive Standards for all breeds of domesticated cats;
• The honoring of outstanding felines, their owners and breeders for their accomplishments;
• The dissemination of information to promote the knowledge and interest of breeders, owners, exhibitors and the general public concerning the breeding, exhibition and improvement of breeds, and the care and welfare of all cats; and,
• The promotion of educational and friendly relations between cat owners in this country and all other countries of the world.