Cats Compete for Glory at CFA International Show in Cleveland

Hundreds of cats gathered in Cleveland, Ohio, for the prestigious CFA International Cat Show & Expo, held from October 11 to 12, 2025. This event showcased over 550 cats from various breeds, attracting nearly 10,000 visitors eager to witness the unique talents and appearances of these felines.

The atmosphere at the International Exposition Center was lively, with performers engaging the audience in a playful rendition of Taylor Swift’s “22,” cleverly altered to fit a cat-themed performance known as “Cat-aoke.” Attendees enjoyed the spectacle, which included elaborate displays featuring cat towers and innovative products, such as a $900 drying box designed for pets.

Inside the venue, rows of carriers, beds, and displays were set up for the competing cats. The event was organized by the Cat Fancier Association (CFA), the largest registry of pedigreed cats in the world. This year’s show attracted participants from as far as Finland, Hong Kong, Japan, and Russia, highlighting its global appeal.

Competition Highlights and Judging Criteria

The main competition area featured various “rings” where respected judges, including Peter Vanwonterghem, evaluated the animals. Dressed in a striking white silk suit and bowtie, Vanwonterghem remarked, “This show really brings the best cats from all over the world, and they can compete against each other, which they don’t normally get to do.”

Unlike dog shows, where participants must perform tasks, cats are judged based on their adherence to breed standards. Criteria include head shape, size, ear shape, and color markings. Judges also consider personality traits, as highlighted by Jennifer Redding, a prominent breeder and CFA judge, who stated, “You can have a cat that meets the standard closely, but if it doesn’t want to be shown… it’s not going to do very well.”

The show featured multiple categories, including a special section for kittens aged four to eight months, as well as an adult class divided into breeding and spayed/neutered categories. The competition culminated in the Best of the Best award, won by Burmania Pepin of Elessar, a Bombay cat, highlighting the high stakes and prestige associated with the event.

A Community of Cat Lovers and Adoption Opportunities

The CFA International Cat Show not only celebrated purebred cats but also provided a platform for common household cats through a dedicated category. This inclusion fosters a sense of community among cat lovers and offers newcomers a chance to participate in the vibrant world of cat shows.

Judges evaluate household cats based on charisma and grooming, with Teresa Sweeney emphasizing the importance of presentation. “This is probably the biggest turnout we’ve had all year for the Household Pets category,” she noted, showcasing the inclusive spirit of the event.

The Expo also served as a hub for adoption, facilitating the adoption of 105 cats during the weekend. Bobby, a CFA representative, explained, “The Expo was created not just as a cat show, but as a bridge—a place where preservation breeders, rescue advocates, and everyday cat lovers can come together under one roof.”

While many attendees share a passion for pedigree cats, others cherish the connections formed with their pets, echoing sentiments such as those from Barbara Bleifuss, who transitioned from showing household cats to Persians. Reflecting on her journey, she recalled, “I thought it was pretty magical,” emphasizing the bond between humans and their feline companions.

As the event concluded, it was clear that the CFA International Cat Show & Expo is more than just a competition; it is a celebration of the enduring relationship between cats and their owners. With its blend of fun, community, and the joy of companionship, the show continues to attract cat enthusiasts from around the world, proving that the love for cats knows no boundaries.