This year we found ourselves intrigued by three new to us breeds as the attractive Somali, the curious Devon Rex and the exotic Abyssinian varieties were all well-represented in a competition that is usually dominated by the large and fluffy Maine Coon participants. Our favorite cat of the day was Stevie Nicks - a young male Devon Rex who might have been too talkative during his judging segments, but he did well in the agility competition to emerge as a front runner in the early morning hours. As we focused on this vocal fellow we decided that next year we will follow one cat's journey on the floor to really get a cat's eye view of the competiton when it returns to Music City.

CFA Cat Shows prove that cats can be trained as the schedule is rigorous with the felines being handled by various judges throughout a weekend. Many sat calmly in the pens as they waitied for their moments to show off. They also have to enjoy meticulous grooming, being in a carrier and traveling. Most people start off with kittens so they get used to the routine and their owner's can determine if their pet is cut out for contests.

CFA Cat Shows are a combination of community, comradery and competition. It starts with a love of cats and the dedication to participate as there really is not a financial incentive to do so. Although breeders do benefit if their cat(s) are award winners within their class making their animals more desirable for mating. Most shows are held over the weekend since many owners also have full time jobs. If you go to enough CFA events you see many of the same folks who become friends - sharing the bond of felines. We also learned that there can be a strategy to which shows to attend depending on certain factors such as more participants means more points to be awarded.

It's not just a job as the expert judges appear to love cats just as much as their owner's do.

The Cat Fanciers' Association is a not-for-profit organization founded in the early 1900's. Since then, CFA has grown to over 600 clubs. In addition to hosting events, the CFA promotes the welfare of all cats through progressive actions which ranges from legislative advocacy to the support of feline research and providing breeder assistance with a focus on quality standards and valid registration of pedigrees.

The CFA Cat Show in Nashville was an impressive display of cats including cuddly kittens. In addition to proud cat parents there was plenty of spectators proving that cat shows are a draw. The Fairgrounds located at 401 Wingrove Street, is situated on 117 acres and is approximately two miles south of downtown Nashville. Their Expo buildings total more than 132,000 square feet of space which makes this venue an ideal spot for indoor events such as the CFA Cat Show or large-scale outdoor activities such as their popular Nashville Flea Market that takes place throughout the year.

CFA Shows are a great way to meet fellow cat caretakers, learn about different breeds and more so be on the lookout for one near you and for Nashvillians be ready for CFAs expected return to Music City in late 2026 or early 2027.

There was a great turnout proving that cats are just as big of a draw as music is in Nashville.

Related Links: For more information on the NASHVILLE CAT SHOW and the other organizations mentioned please visit the following links - Cat Fanciers' Association | There Were Plenty of Cool Cats at the CFA Cat Show in Nashville | Nashville Fairgrounds