Introduction to Fast CAT Dog Sport: Straight Line Racing

Ever watched your dog suddenly bolt across the park after a squirrel, a flash of fur and pure joy? That incredible burst of speed and focus is exactly what the dog sport Fast CAT taps into. It’s a timed, straight-line race that lets dogs do what many love most: run as fast as they possibly can, chasing something enticing. Forget complex agility courses or obedience routines; Fast CAT is beautifully simple, making it incredibly accessible and wildly popular among dog owners looking for a fun, high-energy activity to share with their canine companions. So, what exactly does Fast CAT stand for? It’s an acronym for Coursing Ability Test. While it shares roots with traditional lure coursing, which often involves turns and is primarily for sighthounds, Fast CAT offers a straightforward, 100-yard dash open to virtually any dog that loves to chase. The concept is brilliantly uncomplicated: a dog chases a lure (usually a white plastic bag or a similar fluffy object) pulled rapidly along the ground by a continuous loop system. The goal? Cover that 100 yards as quickly as possible.

The Thrill of the Chase: How Fast CAT Works

Imagine a flat, grassy field, typically fenced for safety. At one end, you have the start line, where the handler holds their eager dog. At the other end, 100 yards away, is the finish line and beyond that, a safe run-out area and the “catch pen” where another handler (often a friend or family member, or sometimes a volunteer referred to as the ‘catcher’) waits to greet the dog after its triumphant run. The real magic happens with the lure. A mechanized system pulls this lure at high speed from just past the start line, straight down the track, towards the finish. The dog is released precisely as the lure passes the start, triggering their natural prey drive. Electronic timers capture the exact moment the dog crosses the start and finish lines, measuring their time down to the hundredth of a second. The atmosphere at a Fast CAT event is electric. You hear excited barks, encouraging shouts from handlers, and the whirring sound of the lure machine. Mostly, though, you see dogs utterly consumed by the joy of the chase. Their bodies are stretched out, ears pinned back, eyes locked onto that fluttering white lure. It’s pure, unadulterated canine athleticism on display.

The Setup: Course and Equipment

The course itself is deliberately simple: a 100-yard straight path. Key elements include:

• The Track: A reasonably level surface, usually grass, at least 150-200 yards long to accommodate the run-out space. It needs to be clear of hazards.
• Fencing: While not always mandatory depending on the venue and event type, fencing along the sides is common and highly recommended for safety, preventing dogs from veering off course.
• The Lure Machine: This is the engine of the sport, typically consisting of a motor, pulleys, and a continuous loop of string that pulls the lure. The operator ensures the lure stays ahead of the dog, providing constant motivation.
• Timing Gates: Electronic sensors at the start and finish lines provide accurate timing. These are crucial for calculating the dog’s speed.
• The Lure: Most often, white plastic bags are used because they are highly visible and flutter enticingly. Sometimes squawkers or other attractants are added.

Official Timing Standard: According to the American Kennel Club (AKC), the official organizing body for Fast CAT in the US, the dog’s time is recorded electronically over the 100-yard distance. This time is then converted into Miles Per Hour (MPH). A handicap system based on the dog’s height at the withers may sometimes be applied for certain calculations, but the primary score is based on raw speed.

Who Can Play? The All-Inclusive Nature of Fast CAT

One of the biggest draws of Fast CAT is its inclusivity. Unlike some dog sports heavily dominated by specific breeds (like herding trials or traditional lure coursing for sighthounds), Fast CAT welcomes almost any dog. If your dog is at least 12 months old and physically sound, they can likely participate. From the tiniest Terriers to the largest Great Danes, from purebred champions to beloved mixed breeds (through programs like the AKC Canine Partners program), all are invited to test their speed. You’ll see an incredible variety at events: lightning-fast Whippets and Greyhounds living up to their reputation, surprisingly speedy Bulldogs and Corgis, enthusiastic Labrador Retrievers, focused German Shepherds, and terriers running with fierce determination. It’s a fantastic celebration of the canine spirit across all shapes and sizes. The key requirement isn’t breed, but drive – does your dog love to chase?

Why Dogs (and People) Love Fast CAT

The appeal is multi-faceted. For the dogs, it’s a chance to indulge a deeply ingrained instinct. The chase is rewarding in itself. It’s a massive physical and mental release, allowing them to expend energy in a focused, exhilarating way. You can often see the pride and excitement in a dog after completing a run. For owners, it’s incredibly rewarding to see their dogs doing something they genuinely enjoy. It strengthens the bond through shared activity and excitement. Logistically, it’s also relatively easy to get involved. The training required is minimal compared to other sports – essentially, you need good recall (so your dog comes to the catcher) and the dog needs to show interest in the lure. Many dogs take to it immediately. Furthermore, events are often held outdoors in relaxed environments, making them enjoyable social occasions for both humans and dogs.

Benefits Summarized:

• Taps into natural prey drive
• Excellent physical exercise
• Mental stimulation
• Builds confidence in some dogs
• Relatively easy entry point into dog sports
• Fun, positive atmosphere
• Strengthens the owner-dog bond
• Inclusive of most breeds and mixes

Chasing Titles: Scoring and Recognition

Fast CAT isn’t just about having fun; there’s also a system for recognizing achievement through titles. It works like this: 1. Calculate MPH: The dog’s time over the 100 yards is converted into Miles Per Hour (MPH). The formula is typically 204.545 divided by the dog’s time in seconds. 2. Earn Points: Points are awarded based on the dog’s MPH multiplied by a handicap (if applicable, based on height, though often points are simply awarded based on MPH tiers or directly). The AKC system primarily awards points based directly on the calculated MPH. 3. Accumulate Points for Titles: Dogs earn titles by accumulating a certain number of points. The first title is the BCAT (Fast CAT), earned after accumulating 150 points. Subsequent titles include the DCAT (DCAT), FCAT (FCAT), and further numbered FCAT levels, requiring progressively more points (500 for DCAT, 1000 for FCAT, and increments of 500 thereafter). Seeing your dog earn a title like BCAT or DCAT is a proud moment, a testament to their speed and enthusiasm for the game. It adds an element of friendly competition and goal-setting to the fun.

Getting Your Paws Wet: How to Start

Interested in giving Fast CAT a try? It’s easier than you might think.

1. Find Events:

Check the event calendars of kennel clubs and dog sport organizations. The AKC website (in the US) has a searchable event calendar. Many local clubs or training centers also host Fast CAT trials or “fun runs.” Fun runs are great for beginners as they are often less formal.

2. Assess Your Dog’s Interest:

Does your dog love to chase toys, balls, or even just shadows? That’s a great sign! You can gauge interest by dragging a toy tied to a string quickly across the yard. If they pursue it eagerly, they’ll likely enjoy the lure.

3. Basic ‘Training’:

While formal training isn’t extensive, a few things help:

• Recall: Your dog MUST reliably come when called, especially to the person acting as the catcher at the finish line. Practice this extensively.
• The Release: Practice holding your dog at a start line (even a pretend one) while someone else calls them or tempts them with a toy from a distance, then releasing them on cue. They need to be comfortable being held back briefly while excited.
• Lure Introduction (Optional): Some clubs offer practice sessions where dogs can see and chase the actual lure system before competing.

4. What to Bring to an Event:

• Your dog (healthy and reasonably fit!)
• Leash and collar/harness (check event rules for collar types allowed at the line)
• Water for your dog and yourself
• Shade (umbrella, pop-up tent) – events can involve waiting
• Chair
• High-value treats or a favorite toy for rewards
• A reliable ‘catcher’ (friend or family member)
• Patience and a positive attitude!

Safety First: Running Responsibly

While Fast CAT is generally safe, responsible participation is key. Ensure your dog is physically fit for high-speed running. Warm-ups and cool-downs, though brief, can be beneficial. Pay attention to the weather – avoid running dogs in extreme heat. Inspect the track for any potential hazards. Importantly, ensure your dog genuinely enjoys the activity. If they seem stressed or hesitant, don’t force them. It’s meant to be fun!

Know Your Dog’s Limits: Fast CAT is a high-impact activity. Consult your veterinarian if you have concerns about your dog’s structural health, especially for very young, senior, or brachycephalic (flat-faced) breeds. Ensure your dog is well-hydrated and not pushed beyond their comfort level, particularly in warm weather. Safety and enjoyment should always be the top priorities.

Fast CAT offers a unique and exhilarating way to engage with your dog, celebrating their natural speed and chasing instincts in a safe and structured environment. It’s a sport built on pure canine joy, and watching your dog blast down that 100-yard track is an experience few owners forget. If you’re looking for an accessible, high-energy sport that’s fun for almost any dog, Fast CAT might just be the perfect fit.