Posted: November 17, 2009, 3 a.m. EST
The finest show cats from around the world will return Nov. 21-22 to Atlanta for the 2009 CFA International Cat Show.
“Catlanta,” as it has become known in cat circles, is sponsored by the Cat Fanciers’ Association and will host more than 700 felines. All 41 breeds recognized by the CFA will be represented, including the popular
Siamese and
Persian, the impressive
Maine Coon, the elegant
Cornish Rex, the long and lean
Oriental and the hairless
Sphynx.
Winners from each of 12 rings will proceed to the Best of Breed awards. From there, six cats — the highest scoring longhair and shorthair in the kitten, championship and premiership classes will proceed to the Best of the Best competition. The final Best in Show title will be determined by a panel of three judges.
Last year’s winner was Grand Champion Kuorii Snatos, a black Persian male that was bred in Italy and has co-owners in North Carolina and California.
Breed booths will describe the history and personality of each breed, and many will have an "ambassador" cat on hand that will be available for viewing and touching by spectators. Joan Miller, CFA All Breed judge, will present talks about the various breeds, providing more opportunities to see the cats.
A section called the Meow Mall will provide a large shopping area for cat-related items.
The show runs 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Nov. 21 and 9 .am. -5 p.m. Nov. 22. Admission is $8; $6 for children and seniors; free for children 5 and younger.