I love showing cats. I love the sense of community, with people from all different backgrounds and cultures getting together for something they are passionate about, and having a fun time doing it.

There is a lot of hard work involved in a group organising a show and then setting up, but when the day comes and your group has a bountiful prize table. A kitchen full of home made treats to eat and share with your friends and a raffle to win, well, the day is going to be a good one. That is without even mentioning the cats!

The cats are all groomed, some needing a team approach and some just a lick and a promise and they are ready to be judged.

Pedigreed show cats take part, as well as a special group a companion cat class, so no-one misses out on the fun.

As with all born kittens there is usually variation within a litter, to be recognised as a contender for the show arena, exacting standards of form and presentation does not suit all. Just as we aren't all suitable to be “catwalk” models, neither are all cats, with some being a little taller or shorter or other individual variations from the standards specified by the council.

All my cats are adored and treasured. I find it an honour to take part in their daily care and they are an integral part of my family.

All my cats have yearly vaccinations to cover them for trips to be shown, to confirm by judging standards against those of the same breed. Immunisation helps protect them as best as can from exposure to potential disease they may come across in a multi-cat arena as well as exposure in their daily lives. In saying that, all cats prior to a show pass a strict veterinary inspection to detect any issues prior to them being in attendance with other cats.

Although I enjoy being with cat loving people at shows, I realise that the majority of cats are our home companions, as it should be.

We are so lucky to experience and share our lives with our furry friends; be it resting in bed, watching T.V. or being together as a family. All the love shown by their family, along with the temperament of the cat, will amplify the happiness to all involved.