A first-of-its-kind cat show entertained all who attended over the weekend.
The inaugural ScoTICAt event was held at William Howard School in Brampton from July 23 to 24.
The name and its stylisation come from the acronym of The International Cat Association, an American-originating organisation by which this event’s organiser – Marion Collins – was proud to be accredited.
She said during the latter half of the two-day event: “It’s been fantastic.
“There are a lot of people here who have turned up from the local area yesterday and today.
“The venue has been really good and the judges have enjoyed it so far too.”
This is the first TICA event in the area, as Marion explained the nearest area is the Midlands for TICA.
Marion was here with some of her cats, most notably Saorsa, who was the supreme grand champion.
The event was graced by Nude Look Emeliana, the TICA-certified best Sphynx in the world, owned by Amanda Brass of Darlington who said: “This was my dream last season, now we’ve just been awarded this.”
Also proud of her pets was Ellie Jones, from Lanark, who brought her British Longhairs.
She said the breed is perhaps underappreciated compared to the shorthairs and she is one of few breeders of longhairs in Scotland.
She said of the event: “The cats love it.
“We started them as kittens so they get used to the noises and sites, but it’s not for everyone.”
Indeed, this event is not for just the casual cat fan, instead for the cat lovers.
The judging itself can seem enigmatic at first glance, but it’s quite straight-forward in theory – though not in practice.
Judge Phillipa Holmes explained that each breed of cat has its own guide sheet, showing each intricate detail of the breed, what makes a good example of said breed, and therefore what they should be looking for.
She said: “I have a picture of what I feel in my head.
“Then we take them out of their pen and I hold them on the table and feel to make sure.”
Non-pedigree cats – house cats - are judged just on health and temperament, as Ginny Black - who was here with her Siberians - explained.
The judging was followed by owners talking about their cats, their favourite toys, food, and activities.
The next TICA event nearby will be at the Auctionmart in Carlisle in April next year.
Cat lovers would be fools not to attend!
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