What are AKC Fast CAT Rankings
AKC Fast CAT rankings list the fastest dogs in the country by converting each dog’s best 100-yard dash time into miles per hour, then into a standardized Fast CAT score. The American Kennel Club updates the list every week so handlers can see exactly where their dogs stand in their breed, height group, and the big national picture. When you understand how those numbers are built you can set realistic goals, track progress through the season, and celebrate every fraction of a mile per hour gained.
Why AKC Fast CAT became so popular?
Fast CAT (Coursing Ability Test) takes the wide, zig-zag course used in lure-coursing trials and trims it to a single 100-yard dash. Dog lines up behind a white plastic lure. The lure operator hits the throttle and handlers cheer as tails blur past the timing gates. Because the track is straight and identical at every trial, the American Kennel Club can compare times from Maine to California without worrying about field shape or surface quality. That consistency turns AKC Fast CAT rankings into the sport’s heartbeat. Year-end awards, special invitations, and endless bragging rights all point back to that leaderboard.
AKC Fast CAT Point Calculation
Every race begins the same way. A dog stands in a slip lead at the start line, the lure motor whirs at the finish line, and the handler walks to the end to call the dog home. Electronic sensors record the exact moment the nose breaks each beam. The dog’s time converts to speed with a simple distance-over-time formula:
To determine a dog’s AKC Fast CAT points, follow these steps:
Measure the Time: Record the dog’s time to complete the 100-yard course in seconds.
Convert Time to Speed: Use the formula Speed (MPH) = 204.545 / Run Time (seconds)Â to convert the time into miles per hour (MPH).
Determine the Handicap: Based on the dog’s height at the withers, apply the appropriate handicap:
- 18 inches or greater: No handicap
- 12–17.9 inches: Handicap of 1.5
- Under 12 inches: Handicap of 2
Calculate the Points: Multiply the dog’s speed (MPH) by its handicap to calculate the Fast CAT points.
This method ensures a fair comparison across different dog sizes, accurately reflecting their speed and agility.
You can also use our AKC Fast CAT point calculator
Fast CAT Height handicaps create a level field
Stride length grows with leg length, so tiny dogs rarely match the raw speed of tall sighthounds. Rather than split the sport into dozens of breed divisions, the AKC uses three height groups and multiplies the raw speed by a set factor.
Dogs 18 inches and taller at the withers multiply by 1.0
Dogs 12 inches to under 18 inches multiply by 1.5
Dogs under 12 inches or any brachycephalic breed multiply by 2.0
The final number is the Fast CAT score. A Whippet that posts 35 mph earns 35 points. A 10-inch Papillon that posts 23 mph multiplies by 2.0 and steps away with 46 points. That score feeds the breed chart and the all-breed percentile list. No extra steps, no committees, just a formula that rewards desire and conditioning as much as leg length.
Factors Affecting AKC Fast CAT Rankings
Breed and Size
Different breeds have varying natural speeds. Greyhounds and Whippets, known for their speed, often dominate the rankings. However, Fast CAT is inclusive, allowing all breeds to compete and be ranked within their breed and overall. Smaller breeds may not achieve the top speeds of larger, faster breeds, but they can excel within their categories.
Training and Conditioning
A dog’s performance in Fast CAT can be significantly improved with proper training and conditioning. Regular exercise, sprint training, and maintaining a healthy weight are crucial for optimal performance. Training should focus on short bursts of speed and endurance to mimic the conditions of a Fast CAT event.
Health and Age
A dog’s health and age play significant roles in their Fast CAT performance. Younger, healthier dogs tend to perform better. Regular veterinary check-ups ensure that your dog is in peak health, addressing any issues that might affect their speed and stamina.
Improving Your Dog's AKC Fast CAT Rankings
Regular Practice
Consistent practice is key to improving your dog’s speed and performance in Fast CAT events. Frequent sprints and practice runs help build muscle memory and improve overall speed. Incorporating play and chase games into your dog’s routine can make training enjoyable and effective.
Proper Nutrition
A balanced diet is essential for maintaining your dog’s health and energy levels. High-quality protein, healthy fats, and complex carbohydrates are important for muscle building and sustained energy. Supplements like glucosamine and Ultra Joint – Liquid Joint Support Supplement can support joint health, crucial for sprinting activities.
Healthy Weight Maintenance
Maintaining a healthy weight is critical for optimal performance in Fast CAT. Excess weight can slow a dog down and increase the risk of injuries. A balanced diet rich in high-quality proteins, healthy fats, and essential nutrients supports muscle development and overall health. Regular weigh-ins and adjustments to diet and exercise routines ensure that a dog stays in peak physical condition.
Rest and Recovery
Rest and recovery are equally important components of a training program. Adequate rest between training sessions allows muscles to recover and grow stronger. Back On Track Vest is great for dog’s recovery. Ensuring that a dog gets enough sleep and relaxation time prevents overtraining and reduces the risk of injury.
Veterinary Check-ups
Regular veterinary check-ups ensure your dog is in peak health. Any underlying health issues can be identified and addressed, preventing them from affecting performance. It’s also important to keep up with vaccinations and parasite control to avoid any health setbacks.
Mental Stimulation and Focus
Mental stimulation is just as important as physical conditioning. Training your dog to stay focused on the lure and ignore distractions can improve performance. Use positive reinforcement techniques to build a strong connection between your dog and the chase activity.
Why Participate in Fast CAT?
Bonding Experience
Participating in Fast CAT events strengthens the bond between you and your dog. The training sessions and the events themselves are excellent opportunities for quality time together. This shared activity fosters trust and communication, enhancing your overall relationship.
Physical and Mental Stimulation
Fast CAT provides great physical exercise for dogs, keeping them fit and healthy. It also offers mental stimulation, as dogs use their natural instincts to chase the lure. This combination of physical and mental engagement is beneficial for a dog’s overall well-being.
Social Interaction
These events are also social occasions, allowing you and your dog to interact with other participants. It’s a wonderful way to meet fellow dog lovers, share tips, and experiences. The sense of community and camaraderie at Fast CAT events makes them enjoyable for both dogs and their owners.
Competitive Spirit
For those with a competitive streak, Fast CAT offers an exciting outlet. Watching your dog improve and climb the rankings is rewarding. The thrill of competition can be a motivating factor for continued training and participation in events.
Finding weekly AKC Fast CAT rankings
Common myths about AKC Fast CAT rankings
Frequently Asked Questions
Fast CAT, or Coursing Ability Test, is a timed 100-yard dash where dogs run individually, chasing a lure. The dog’s speed is recorded and converted into points, which are then used to determine their ranking within their breed and overall.
The dog’s speed in miles per hour (mph) is calculated using the formula:
Speed (mph) = 204.54 / Time (seconds)
This speed is then multiplied by a pre-set factor to convert it into points. Points are accumulated over multiple runs to determine the dog’s overall ranking.
Yes, Fast CAT is inclusive and allows all breeds to compete. Dogs are ranked within their breed and overall, ensuring fair competition. Smaller or less traditionally fast breeds have the opportunity to excel within their size category.
AKC Fast CAT rankings are updates weekly, usually on Friday afternoons except for major holidays.
Participating in Fast CAT provides numerous benefits, including strengthening the bond between you and your dog, offering excellent physical and mental stimulation for your pet, and fostering a sense of community with other dog enthusiasts. It’s an enjoyable and rewarding activity for both dogs and their owners.
