Cat Fanciers’ Valentine Show A Big Draw For Furry Feline Fans

Chevy, a grand-champion Persian cat who calls Kailua home, strikes a regal pose that displays his fine furry form. Photo from Joan Harris.

It may have a Valentine theme, but the South West Regional Cat Show should also be keen and exciting from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday at McCoy Pavilion.

The show draws international judges, so pedigreed pet owners prepare their best cats to capture the most points leading to Best Cat in Show and Grand Champion. Common mixed-breed cats also can compete in their own category, and cages will be decked out with hearts in red and pink hues. Joan Miller of the national Cat Fanciers Association will speak about the origin and history of cat breeds.

Kailua resident Joan Harris, as president of the Aloha Cat Fanciers, which has several Windward members, likes Persian cats the best. She and her husband share their home with 10 of them, including a few “retired breeders.” The Harris touch has produced a number of Grand Champions over the years, but Saturday’s show will be the debut for her young female, Dusty Rose.

One good thing about those furry Persians, she said: “They’re poor jumpers, so you won’t find them on top of your kitchen counter or refrigerator. They’re also quiet, sweet and pretty.”

Admission is $4 and $2. For more fine feline facts, call 261-4354.