Choosing a prefix is one of the first milestones for any breeder who registers cats or kittens with the Governing Council of the Cat Fancy. But what exactly is a prefix, why does it matter, and how does the process work?
Here we explain it all, from the basics to the benefits, helping new breeders understand how a prefix shapes their identity and record within the cat fancy.
What Is a Prefix?
A prefix is the official, registered name that appears at the beginning of a cat’s registered name. It serves as the breeder’s registered name within the GCCF system and is used to indicate who bred the cat.
Example: If your GCCF-approved prefix is Silkfoot, and you register a kitten named Daisy, her full registered name could be:
Silkfoot Daisy Dream – The prefix “Silkfoot” tells everyone that this cat was bred by you, under your officially registered name.
Why Does the Prefix Matter?
The prefix isn’t just decorative. It holds meaning, credibility and practical benefits:
- Breeder Identity: It’s your official name within the GCCF system.
- Accountability: A registered prefix confirms that the breeder agrees to GCCF Rules and Bylaws.
- Recognition: Over time, prefixes become familiar to other breeders and fanciers.
- Protection: No one else can use your prefix once it’s granted, giving you exclusive rights within GCCF.
“Your prefix isn’t just a name — it’s a sign of commitment to responsible breeding and proper record-keeping.” – GCCF Board Member
Who Can Apply for a Prefix?
You can apply for a prefix if:
- You are a member of at least one GCCF Member Cat Club, who have agreed to support your application
- You agree to follow the GCCF Rules and Byelaws
If you are under 18, you can still apply, but the application form must also be signed by a parent or guardian to give consent.
It is common for breeders to apply for a prefix well before registering their first litter. It is advisable to apply for your prefix prior to arranging the mating, to ensure everything is in place before the kittens are born and ready to be registered.
“Applying for your prefix is one of the most important early steps a new breeder can take. It helps establish your identity within the GCCF system and lays the foundation for your future in the cat fancy.” – GCCF Mentor Breeder
How to Apply for a Prefix: Step-by-Step
1. Choose Your Preferred Names
1. Choose Your Preferred NamesThere are several checks your proposed prefix must pass before it can be approved to ensure it is in line with Section 1, Rule 11 of the GCCF Rules. Some of these rules include:
- It must be made up of only letters and certain symbols such as dashes, apostrophes, asterisks or exclamation marks
- Be unique within GCCF and not resemble an existing prefix
- It should not be offensive or inappropriate in any way
Before applying, you can check whether your chosen prefix is already registered using the GCCF Prefix List. This helps avoid disappointment and saves time during the application process.
Although there is no fixed minimum or maximum character count specifically for the prefix, the total registered name of a cat (including the prefix) must not exceed 30 characters including spaces. The GCCF office recommend under 20 characters for the prefix.
Experienced breeders often advise choosing a fairly short prefix. This gives you more flexibility when naming kittens, as longer prefixes can use up too many of your 30 characters, leaving little room for a meaningful or creative name.
You will be asked to list a minimum of four choices in order of preference on your application.
2. Complete the Application Form
You can:
- Apply online via the Prefix Application page
- Or download the form: Prefix Application Form (PDF)
3. Pay the Fee
As of January 2024:
- If you are in the UK, then a single or joint prefix application is £75
- If you are outside the UK, then a single or joint application is £100
Prices are correct at the time of publication and subject to change. See the full up to date GCCF price list here.
4. Wait for Processing
4. Wait for ProcessingOnce your form and payment have been received, the GCCF office will carry out an initial check to ensure your application meets all the requirements. This includes verifying that the name choices are appropriate and not already in use.
Following this, your application is submitted to the GCCF Board of Directors for initial approval. After Board approval, your chosen prefix is added to a public notification list on the GCCF website for a period of 21 days. This notification period allows for any objections or feedback to be raised before the prefix is formally accepted.
Only after the 21-day notification period has passed without valid objection is your prefix formally granted by the GCCF.
Your prefix will be confirmed by post or email once approved, and you can then use it for all future qualifying kitten registrations.
The approval process can vary depending on how fast your membership is confirmed and whether there are any issues with the application however, the process takes an average of 4-6 weeks once club confirmation has been received.
It’s recommended to apply well in advance if you are planning to register a litter, to ensure your prefix is in place beforehand.
Once approved, you’ll receive confirmation and can use the prefix in future kitten registrations.
Common Prefix Questions Answered
Can more than one person own a prefix?
Yes. Prefixes can be held jointly by two people.
Can I change my prefix later?
You can apply for minor amendments such as spelling changes once it has been granted. This costs £35 and must go to the board of directors for approval. The board’s decision is final and an amendment request cannot be made if the prefix has already been used on a cats registration.
Can a prefix be inherited or passed on?
Only in the case of joint ownership. If a prefix is held jointly, the surviving party may continue to use it.
What if I breed more than one breed?
You only need one prefix (though you are allowed to have multiple, many people do). It can be used across all breeds you register with GCCF.
Is the prefix the same as a cattery name?
Sometimes. A cattery name might be used more broadly (e.g. online), but only a GCCF prefix is officially registered.
Do pet buyers care about prefixes?
Increasingly, yes. A GCCF prefix shows the breeder is registered, traceable, and agrees to the GCCF rules and byelaws.
Why GCCF Encourages Prefix Registration
Prefix registration helps GCCF:
- Maintain accurate pedigree records
- Monitor breeding activity and patterns
- Ensure accountability
- Give breeders and buyers confidence in registered cats
It’s an essential part of the structured registration system that sets pedigree breeding apart from casual or unregulated breeding.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
If you’re thinking about starting your breeding journey, applying for a prefix is your first step. It shows you’re committed, responsible, and ready to build your reputation in the cat fancy.
Apply for your prefix today and take that important first step towards becoming a GCCF breeder.
Considering Buying a Kitten?
If you’re researching breeders while looking for a kitten, it’s worth understanding how the GCCF Breeder Scheme works. It helps pet buyers identify breeders who are committed to quality, health, and responsible practices.
FAQs
What does a GCCF prefix cost?
£75 for UK residents or £100 for non UK residents (as of Jan 2024).
How long does approval take?
Once club membership has been confirmed with the office, the review process takes 4-6 weeks on average.
What happens if all three prefix choices are taken?
You’ll be asked to submit additional name choices until one is available and approved. You can help avoid this by checking the GCCF Prefix List before applying to see which names are already in use.
Is a GCCF prefix valid with other organisations?
No. It is only valid within GCCF.
Where does the prefix appear?
At the beginning of the cat’s full GCCF registered name on the certificate.
