Cat lovers flocked to the Fontvieille Marquee over the weekend for the ninth International Cat Show in Monaco, where nearly 200 pedigree cats from 27 breeds competed in the Principality’s traditional feline beauty contest.
The show ran on Saturday, October 3 and Sunday, October 4, with doors open from 10am to 6pm on both days. It was organised by the Monegasque association De Gati De Mùnegu under the High Patronage of Princess Caroline of Hanover.
Ten international judges examined the cats against the standards of LOOF, the French pedigree register, and TICA, the international cat association. Visitors could see breeds including Maine Coons, Persians, Bengals, Ragdolls and Sphynx cats. Around 90 breeders from across Europe were expected to take part, organisers said ahead of the event.
Away from the judging rings, stalls devoted to cats and their well-being were set up for the public, along with other activities, Monaco Hebdo reported.
Animal welfare was a key theme of the weekend. Organisers brought in a strict ban on kitten sales during the show and planned to work with animal-protection groups to encourage responsible adoption.
The show also earned its own postage stamp. The Principality’s Stamp Office issued a €2.25 stamp on September 5, designed by Florence Gendre and featuring a Persian cat, to mark the 2026 edition.
The event has grown steadily since its debut at Espace Fontvieille in September 2020, and moved to a different venue, Espace Léo Ferré, for the seventh edition in October 2024.
Image courtesy of Communication Department – Manuel Vitali