FAST CAT

Dog agility is fast, loud, and addictive in the best way. You and your dog run an obstacle course together, and the goal is simple: clear the course as a team. The details are where it gets fun, timing, handling, trust, and the kind of connection you can feel when it clicks.

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What is Fast CAT?

Fast CAT stands for Fast Coursing Ability Test. Dogs run one at a time down a 100-yard course, chasing a lure, and their time is recorded. That time is converted into points based on your dog’s height, and those points add up toward titles.

A 100-yard sprint

Your dog runs straight down a course chasing a lure.

Timed, not judged

No routines, no patterns. It is all about the run.

Beginner friendly

Most dogs understand chasing a lure right away.

Runs are quick

A full day can include waiting, but the actual run is fast.

Points and titles

Times convert into points, and points add up to titles.

A fun event atmosphere

Fast CAT events are energetic, supportive, and easy to watch.

Is Fast CAT Right for Your Dog?

Fast CAT is a great fit for dogs who enjoy chasing and running, and for handlers who want a sport with a simple learning curve. It can also be a fun option for teams who do other sports and want something that feels totally different.

A note on safety: Fast CAT is fast and physical. If your dog has health concerns, is returning from an injury, or struggles on slick surfaces, talk with your vet and choose events with safe footing.

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Dogs who love to chase

If your dog locks in on toys, squirrels, or moving things, they may love Fast CAT.

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Dogs new to dog sports

You do not need advanced training. Your main job is safe handling and a good release.

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Handlers who want a simple first event

Fast CAT is easy to understand, even if you have never been to a trial before.

How to Start Fast CAT

You do not need months of training. You do need a plan for safety, handling, and making the experience fun.

  1. Watch a few runs first
    Seeing the flow makes the whole day feel easier.

  2. Bring a high value reward
    Many dogs love the run, but you still want something that helps with enthusiasm and focus.

  3. Practice a calm hold and release
    Your dog needs to wait at the start line and then go on cue.

  4. Work on recalls and leash handling
    At the end, you want a dog that comes back to you quickly and safely.

  5. Warm up and cool down
    A short warm-up walk and a cool-down walk are helpful for a sport that involves sprinting.

  6. Start with one or two runs
    First events are about learning the environment. You can build up later.

Fast CAT Points Calculator

Use the calculator to estimate points based on your dog’s height and run time. It is a quick way to see how a run converts into points and what you might need for your next goal.

Fast CAT Speed & Points Calculator

Fast CAT Speed & Points Calculator

Speed: - mph

Points: -

Fast CAT articles

Fast CAT can be simple to run, but there is still a lot to learn about titles, points, event flow, and keeping your dog safe and confident. These posts cover the basics and the details that matter.

fast cat calculator
Fast CAT

Fast CAT Points Calculator

Fast CAT Calculator If you’re participating in Fast CAT, you’ll want a quick and accurate way to calculate your dog’s speed and Fast CAT title

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akc fast cat
Fast CAT

Chasing AKC Fast CAT Titles

Fast CAT is more than just a sprint — it’s a structured AKC competition where dogs get to showcase their speed while earning prestigious Fast

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Common agility questions

No. Many breeds and mixes participate. The sport is designed to be accessible to a wide range of dogs.

Dogs typically run one at a time. The goal is a safe, straight sprint while chasing the lure.

A crate or rest setup, water, a leash, treats or a toy, poop bags, and weather gear for you and your dog.

Your dog’s time is converted into points based on height. Points add up toward titles.

It depends on the dog. Because it is a sprint, conditioning, soundness, and safe footing matter. If you are unsure, ask your vet and start with a conservative approach.

Most dogs follow the lure naturally. For dogs that curve or lose focus, practice short chase games, keep your start line calm, and reward at the end.