Every year, thousands of cats and their owners descend on one location, in the hope of returning with selection of rosettes and cut crystal. Cat shows are events that encourage the same amount of dedication, variety, enthusiasm, competitiveness, and
Every year, thousands of cats and their proud owners descend on one location, in the hope of returning with selection of rosettes and cut crystal. Cat shows, originated in 1871 by English artist and writer Harrison Weir, are events that encourage the same amount of dedication, variety, enthusiasm, competitiveness, and expense as their canine equivalents, Miss World competitions and child beauty pageants.
This weekend saw one-day feline gatherings take place on both sides of the Atlantic: the UK's 35th GCCF Supreme Cat Show and in New York City and Indianapolis. Known for their bigger and better approach, the US events introduce feline agility competitions to their programmes, intended to test grace and athleticism. Supreme remains focused on the traditional aspects of judging by breed standards, proportion of features, coat and temperament. Divided into eight sections, the show boasts hundreds of breeds and colours, both pedigree and non-pedigree varieties. Elegant Egyptian Maus, swimming Turkish Van Cats, enormous Maine Coons (one weighing two stone) vocal Siamese and primped household tabbies – they're all here.
"There's a gap in the market for luxury, minimalist feline cat accessories"
From the perspective of a debut cat show attendee and feline enthusiast there are a number of key observations to be reported. First and foremost, the individual decorated pens, which follow the annual theme (this year, "Royalty"). Cue a succession of union jacks, jewels and thrones. Despite the value and upkeep of cats on display exceeding hundreds of pounds, the aesthetic and quality of finish of pen decoration was disappointing. There's a gap in the market for luxury, minimalist feline cat accessories; the best offering at Supreme, a Céline-esque fur sleep mat and a detailed big cat-print backdrop. Imagine the potential of an Hermès pet line. Names given to show cats provide much amusement including Slinkypaws Valentino, Tytherton Yves Saint Laurent and Denson Grace Kelly.
This year's Supreme Champion prize was given to Chrisan Camelott, a male Cornish Rex; a breed that originated in the 1950s and is often referred to as the Greyhound of the cats because of its sleek appearance.
Suggested Reading: See AnOther's pet column featuring Tom Ford, Frida Kahlo, Bruce Weber, Audrey Hepburn and more, here.
Text by Laura Bradley
