Moggies strut their stuff in competition

Cat show judge Debbie Davidson with Sunset Time for Chocolate. Photo / Michael Craig

The claws were out and the competition catty as pampered moggies strutted their stuff in West Auckland yesterday.

The Oriental Shorthair Cat Association contest scrutinised 35 purebred felines to a degree that would bring most humans to tears.

Photo / Michael Craig

"You're looking for the cat with the least amount of little faults like the eye colour being not quite right," judge Debbie Davidson said.

"They must have a long tubular body, be well muscled, have a long tapering tail, straight nose, strong chin, wide ear flare, triangular-shaped head, beautiful, rich eye colour and almond-shaped eyes."

The supreme winner was a caramel lynx bi-colour called Odakim Sparkle Dragon.

Photo / Michael Craig

To get through the rigours of the judging panel, the cats must also have a suitable temperament.

The placid Zarzuela Zeddfor Zulu fitted the bill nicely.

Photo / Michael Craig

"He's a bit of an idiot, actually, but fortunately it's all about the look in these contests and he's got the look," owner Fiona Taylor said.

Preparation for such competitions was non-stop. Cats are put on a stringent diet to keep them healthy and handsome.