Hairless cats, spotted Bengals and fluffy Ragdolls will be among the attractions when two sisters bring their international championship cat show to Leatherhead Leisure Centre on 14 and 15 November.
Velvet Rebellion is organised by Felinology, founded by sisters Jo and Emily Bell, who held their first small show in Edenbridge, Kent, in 2016. Ten years on, they run international championship shows under the auspices of The International Cat Association (TICA).
Last November, 121 breeders and around 650 visitors attended their Leatherhead show. This year’s event has a fashion theme and is the first in a planned three-part “Fashion Trilogy”.
Cats on show
Pedigree cats will be judged in 10 rings across the weekend by an international panel, with judges travelling from as far afield as Canada. Visitors will be able to watch the judging and meet breeds including Persians, Ragdolls, Bengals, Savannahs, Sphynx and Peterbalds.
Jo Bell said: “People picture a cat show as rows of cages and very serious people with clipboards. We wanted the opposite. It’s glamorous, it’s a bit mad, and it’s the best day out you can have for twelve quid. Bring the kids, they get in free, and they’ll go home wanting a hairless cat. Sorry in advance.”
The free Cativity Zone will offer crafts and a breed hunt. Children can also take part in Gentle Paws, a short session with Ellie’s Animal Academy on handling cats kindly. Each child taking part will receive a certificate.
A marketplace of independent cat businesses will run on both days.
Visiting the show
Velvet Rebellion takes place at Leatherhead Leisure Centre, Guildford Road, Leatherhead KT22 9BL, on Saturday 14 and Sunday 15 November, from 10am to 4pm. Last entry is at 3pm.
Tickets cost £12 for adults and £6 for concessions. Children under 12 and carers enter free, and family tickets start at £22. Tickets are available in advance at buytickets.at/felinology1/2298475 or on the door. There is free parking on site.