Читать книгу The Cat Owners Handbook - Graham Meadows - Страница 15

The first recorded cat show was held at St Giles Fair, Winchester, England, in 1598. During the 19th century, as cats increased in popularity, shows also became more popular. At the earliest events cats were brought along and shown in a variety of containers, or even in their owner’s arms. The cat show as we know it today originated from an idea by an Englishman called Harrison Weir, who decided to house and display cats in rows of cages on a bench or table. His first show, called the National Cat Show, was held in 1871 at the Crystal Palace in London, and at least 160 cats were displayed. This type of display became known as a ‘benched’ show, a name that is still used today.

Judges examine a British Sealpoint kitten and award points for certain characteristics that are defined in the breed’s standard. A kink in the tail would immediately disqualify the cat.

Cat shows are now regular events and an integral part of the pedigree cat scene. However, more and more shows are including a section for non-pedigree cats, thereby attracting ordinary cat owners to display their pets and in turn view the pedigree entries. These shows increase the public’s awareness of advances in the pedigree world, known as the Cat Fancy.

This sorrel Abyssinian, a breed that does not like being confined, is clearly an old hand at cat shows.