The Start of the Cat Fancy: A Complete History

Although cat shows are just over a century old, the origins of the Cat Fancy reach back further, as people have long influenced feline appearance by choosing which cats to cherish and breed. Unlike dogs, which were bred for work and had centuries of showing under their belts, cat shows began primarily as beauty contests, since cats rarely performed tricks or obediences like their canine counterparts.

The term 'Cat Fancy' refers to the various organisations worldwide that started to register pedigree cats and regulate breeding standards. This movement led to the emergence of solid-coloured cats, new patterns, and long-haired breeds. Initially, these breeds reflected local types shaped by historical and geographical factors, but the 20th century saw a surge of new breeds and more creative breeding efforts.

The Start of Cat Shows in Britain

Cat shows in Britain trace their origins to informal contests at country fairs, with the earliest recorded taking place at St Giles Fair in Winchester in 1598. However, the first modern official cat show was held at Crystal Palace, London, in July 1871. This event featured elite pets of the leisured classes, though a working-class category also existed. Organised by writer and artist Harrison Weir, famed as the "Father of the Cat Fancy," who authored breed standards and judged the competition, the show helped establish formalised cat showing. Remarkably, Queen Victoria purchased two blue Persians at this event, giving royal endorsement to pedigreed cats and cat shows alike. The National Cat Club, founded by Weir, is the oldest surviving cat club and continues to hold annual shows in London.

By the early 1900s, cat breeding and showing were firmly established in Britain. Shows featured native breeds such as the British Shorthair and Manx, alongside exotic imports like the Siamese and Abyssinian. In 1910, the Governing Council of the Cat Fancy (GCCF) was founded, becoming the nation's largest and most influential association for pedigree registration and showing.

The Cat Fancy in America

Cat shows in the United States started slightly later, although informal contests existed long before official events. The first official show was held at Madison Square Garden in New York in May 1895, featuring 176 entries. This event was organised by James T Hyde, and the Maine Coon—America's traditional native breed—won the coveted Best Cat award.

The American Cat Association (ACA), formed in 1904, is the oldest surviving cat registry in the US. However, early cat fancy organisations in America experienced internal disputes. A splinter group from the ACA founded the Cat Fanciers Association (CFA) in 1906; today, this registry dominates American cat showing. Another group arrived in 1919 with the formation of the At Fanciers' Federation (CFF), which still exists.

20th Century Developments

Initially, the number of recognised cat breeds was limited, focusing on preserving the best traits while eliminating faults. Breeds changed slowly over time. Later in the century, new breeds and registries emerged rapidly, creating tension between traditionalists and innovators. Older registries were often resistant to change, while newer organisations, like The International Cat Association (TICA) founded in 1979, embraced innovation and welcomed newer breeds. TICA rapidly grew to become the second-largest cat association in North America and encouraged fresh breed development globally.

Growth of Cat Fancy Worldwide

Internationally, the cat fancy blossomed with organisations such as the Federation Internationale Feline (FIFe), founded in 1949 with membership across 36 European countries. Brazil’s World Cat Federation (WCF), created in 1988, has a strong presence in Russia and Eastern Europe, focusing on local emerging breeds. Canada hosts the Canadian Cat Association, the Australian Cat Federation (ACF), and the Coordinating Cat Council of Australia, while New Zealand and Southern Africa also have dedicated cat fancy councils.

International Co-operation and The World Cat Congress

The World Cat Congress, founded in 2001, represents the closest global collaboration platform akin to a United Nations of cat showing. It helps harmonise breed standards, show categories, and naming conventions internationally, reducing confusion among various registries that traditionally competed fiercely for members.

Cat shows have always drawn not just exhibitors but the general public, offering both cat enthusiasts and casual visitors the joy of seeing beautiful cats. Shows vary in presentation and judging styles according to the organising registry, so attending different organisations’ events can be rewarding whether you want to showcase your cat or simply enjoy the experience.

What is a pedigree cat?

Quick Answer: A pedigree cat is a cat with documented ancestry, registered with a cat fancy organisation, that meets established breed standards.

Pedigree cats result from careful selective breeding to preserve or enhance breed characteristics such as coat colour, pattern, body shape, and personality traits. They are registered in organisations like the GCCF in Britain or TICA and CFA in the USA, offering assurances on authenticity and breed consistency. Owning a pedigree cat also carries responsibilities to maintain ethical breeding practices and ensure the cat's health and welfare.

Understanding pedigree status helps potential owners make informed decisions and promotes the welfare and continuation of established breeds in a responsible manner.

For those interested in finding a pedigree cat or learning more, reputable breeders adhering to health and ethical standards are the recommended route.

When can kittens leave their mother?

Quick Answer: Kittens should ideally leave their mother at 12 weeks old or later to ensure proper development and socialisation.

Kittens need time with their mother and littermates to learn important social and behavioural skills and to be fully weaned before adopting a new home. Early separation can risk health and behavioural problems. Most breeding organisations and vets recommend a minimum of 12 weeks, providing time for vaccinations, deworming, and solid food transition. Responsible breeders will adhere to this guideline, ensuring kittens are well prepared for new homes.

If you are looking to adopt or buy a kitten, verify the age and health status with the breeder or shelter to ensure the best start for your new feline friend.