Some years ago I went to the annual cat show in St Paul. The only category I was interested in was Household Cats. The judges really seemed to enjoy their duties, and looked for good health, friendliness, playfulness, and the like. One judge said he loved cats with unusual markings and sometimes judged accordingly. I can guarantee that Sophie will not make it past any judge as she is not going to be particularly friendly! I can see her clenching her tiny paws and sending forth some feral yodels.
I bought one for my Gracie when she tore her ACL. She wasn’t supposed to be allowed to jump onto furniture while it healed. HA! Ever try to keep a cat from jumping up on things? Even at 19.5 years she still jumps onto the sofa. I gave up on the soft-sided mesh cage. She hated it. I slept on the floor with her for a few nights.
Will hold space for you and your family. I hope the judge sees through the manipulation and decides accordingly.