The Supreme Cat Show 2017: A Festival of Feline Excellence

The Supreme Cat Show is the UK's premier annual event for cat enthusiasts, often described as the "Crufts of the cat world." Held at the National Exhibition Centre near Birmingham, the 2017 show took place on Saturday 28th October and brought together a wide array of pedigree cats, their owners, judges, and the public for a day full of excitement and feline splendour.

Overview of the Supreme Cat Show

Unlike most cat shows organised by the Governing Council of the Cat Fancy (GCCF), where cats are judged quietly in their pens, the Supreme Show offers a unique experience. Cats are brought out into the judging ring and evaluated in front of an interested audience, including their owners and visitors, adding an engaging, theatrical element to the competition. Exhibitors often decorate their pens, especially participants in the annual Decorated Pen Competition. In 2017, the theme was "Felines in Fiction," inspiring imaginative displays celebrating famous fictional cats.

The Judging Process

Cats compete within their breed categories initially, with winners progressing to Best of Variety awards such as Best Persian or Best Semi-Long Hair. The day culminates in the prestigious Supreme Best in Show awards, including Best Adult, Best Neuter, and Best Kitten. Household Pets also have their own categories, with top titles recognising non-pedigree feline companions. These awards are highly coveted, marking the pinnacle of a cat's show career under the GCCF standards.

Decorated Pen Competition 2017

The creativity shone through the Decorated Pen Competition with clever interpretations of the "Felines in Fiction" theme. One pen was adorned with imagery and the full text of Edward Lear's poem "The Owl and the Pussycat." Another paid tribute to Aslan from C.S. Lewis’s Narnia series, featuring regal and ornate decor. Other popular themes included "Hello Kitty," "Top Cat," and cats from T.S. Eliot’s "Old Possum’s Book of Practical Cats." This competition adds a charming spectacle that delights public and participants alike.

Fun Competitions and Activities

The Supreme Cat Show thrives on more than just judging. In 2017, the Fun Kitten Class attracted so many entrants under nine months that judges had to split them into four groups before selecting an overall winner. There was also a Celia Leighton Memorial Tabby Class, honouring the memory of a beloved show manager, which drew about 80 tabby cat entries. A Cuddly Toy Competition welcomed children and adults to bring their own favourite soft toys, creating a family-friendly atmosphere throughout the day.

Regular grooming demonstrations provide insight into feline care, while the "Meet the Cats" area allows visitors to engage with representatives of various breed clubs, often showcasing examples of their favourite cats. Special exhibition cats, including retired champions and new breeds, add further interest and educational opportunities.

Visitor Experience

The event is a wonderful day out for cat lovers and the wider public. Alongside the competitions, hundreds explore retail stalls offering cat food, toys, accessories, and literature. In 2017, Maine Coon cats drew particular admiration. My own cat attracted a crowd eager to learn about his breed and breeder, showcasing the social and educational side of the show. The atmosphere combines friendly enthusiasm with the excitement of high-level competition.

Exhibitors’ Perspective on the Show

Participating in the Supreme Show requires dedication and preparation. "Vetting in" occurs early morning from 7 am to 9 am, with many exhibitors arriving earlier to decorate pens. Some set up the day before during dedicated hall openings. Judging can stretch across the morning, and while presence during judging isn't mandatory, many exhibitors prefer to attend. Afternoon brings crowds of visitors, creating a lively and bustling environment where exhibitors answer questions, share tips, and reconnect with fellow cat enthusiasts.

2017 Winners and Highlights

The grand finale gathered enthusiastic audiences around the stage. The Supreme Adult was named Athelstan Sauvage, an Oriental cat. The Supreme Kitten title went to Cullykhan Bellini, a beautiful Persian. The Supreme Neuter and Best in Show was IGrCh and OS IGrPr Cullykhan Vivaldi, a brown tabby and white bicolour Persian.

In the Household Pet categories, OG IGMC Sr Joshua Purrkins, a red curly longhair, was Supreme Pedigree Pet. The Supreme Household Pet Kitten was Tilly Tiptoes, a black and white shorthair, while UK & OG IGMC Rainbow Dreamcatcher, a tortie and white domestic shorthair, earned Supreme Non-Pedigree and Supreme Household Pet Exhibit honours.

Looking Ahead

The 2017 Supreme Cat Show was a memorable celebration of feline beauty, personality, and breed diversity, offering both education and entertainment. The excitement and camaraderie of the day left owners and visitors eagerly anticipating the 2018 event, continuing the tradition of this treasured national showcase for cats and their people.