A Purrrfect Dry Floor Event!

FMC has been hosting cat shows at their arenas for over five years. Just last month, Simoni Arena hosted the Catsachusetts International Cat Show as they presented their 2nd Annual Show, “Catstitute of Higher Purring”.

There were various breeds on display including naked cats (Sphynx), luxurious Persians, sleek Siamese, long haired cats like Ragdolls and Maine Coons, exotic looking spotted cats (Bengals, Savannahs), Toygers, and much more.

Best Selling author and cat expert, Pam Johnson Bennett, spoke both days. Author of the books “Think Like a Cat” and “CatWise”, Ms. Johnson Bennett gave advice on multi-cat households and what to do if your cat has litterbox issues, as well as held Q&A sessions and book signings.

Also in attendance was Shawn Flynn, the Award-winning Author of “THE KITTY Who Rescued Me After I Rescued Him” and Professional Member of the Cat Writers’ Association. Shawn has been going to cat shows since he published his book in 2017. In fact, his very first show was at Horgan Arena! He said, “I get invited to cat shows all over the country and go to many. But, I always prefer those that are held in arenas. Two of my favorites are the Catsachusetts Cat Club cat show at the Simoni Arena in Cambridge, and the Cat Fanciers’ Federation Peace Love & Cats cat show at the Horgan Arena in Auburn.”

Local vendors were also at the show, selling items such as cat toys, cat trees, cat beds, grooming supplies, cat art, and many other items not available at local pet stores.

Be sure to check out the next cat show being held at Horgan Arena June 1-2. This is the Cat Fanciers Federation’s 5th annual “Peace, Love, & Cats” Cat Show.

Cat Show Etiquette

To help ensure a safe and enjoyable show for everyone, keep the following in mind:

• Do not walk into the judging rings to look at the cats in the judging cages. This is the only off limits area in a cat show. Most owners will be happy to show off their cats and answer any questions you may have while you walk through the benching area.
• Watch out for people carrying cats and allow them to pass. People holding cats should always have the right of way – they are trying to get to and from a judging ring and keep the show on schedule
• If you hear someone yell “CAT OUT!” please stand still and let the owner catch the cat. DO NOT TRY TO CATCH THE CAT!
• Some cats are easily frightened by loud noises or sudden movements. If you have children with you, please do your best to contain their excitement and keep running and shouting to a minimum in the show hall.
• Cats are susceptible to a large range of diseases which can be carried from cat to cat by human hands. Please do not pet any cat without asking the owner first. If the owner says “yes,” you may be asked to disinfect your hands first.
• You are welcome to take pictures of all the cats in the hall, especially as they are being judged!