REPORTS FROM EARLY BRITISH CAT SHOWS (1875)

These are reports of the early British cat shows that I've collected from various newspapers and show catalogues. The earliest reports reflect the novelty of cat shows and describe only a few of the entrants.

1875 NORTHAMPTON CAT SHOW

POULTRY, PIGEON, RABBIT, AND CAT SHOW. Northampton Mercury, 6th March 1875
The first show held by this committee took place six years ago, when the number of entries was 228. Each year's exhibition was more and more successful, and showed a larger number of entries, until the present, was held on Wednesday and Thursday, in the Corn Exchange, when the total number of entries amounted to 1,514, including, of course, rabbits and cats. [. . .]The show of rabbits was large, and there were good specimens in all varieties. There was likewise a fair show of tabbies and other species of the cat tribe, some of them being judged extraordinary specimens. [. . .] Committee: Cats : Mrs. Albert Pell, Miss Beasley. Appended is the list of prizes :—

Cats. Class 99.—Long hair, any colour, male, any age. 1st, 15s., Master H. N. Wetherall; 2nd, 10s., Mr. W. Prentice, jun.; 3rd, 5s., Miss Pell, the Infirmary. Commended, Mr. W. Bradshaw, Scaldwell; and Mr. B. Cox, Moulton.
Class 100.—Long hair, any colour, female, any age. 1st, 15s., Miss Mary Wetherall; 2nd, 10s., Mr. Faulkner, 81, Newland; 3rd, 5s., Mr. J. W. Howard, 48, Woolmonger-street. Highly commended, Mr. B. Cox. Commended, Master H. N. Wetherall.
Class 101.—Tabbies, any shade, male or female, any age. 1st, 15s., Mr. F. Coles, 25, Gas-street; 2nd, 10s., Mr. E. Baxter, Dalston-lane, London; 3rd, 5s., Mr. J. J. Phipps, Earl's Barton. Highly commended, Mr. C. F. Smith; and Mrs. Roberts, Spratton Vicarage.
Class 102. —Any variety or colour not before mentioned, male or female, any age. 1st, 15s., Mr. F. Longland, Kingsthorpe ; 2nd, 10s., Mrs. C. Gray; 3rd, 5s., Mrs. Slater, Kingsthorpe-road; extra 3rd, Mr. F. Coles. Highly commended, Mrs. H. L. Cocksedge, Bury St. Edmunds. Commended, Mr. S. Parbery, Kingsthorpe.

1875 RUGBY CAT, RABBIT, AND BIRD SHOW

RUGBY. CAT, RABBIT, AND BIRD SHOW - Leicester Chronicle, 8th May 1875
The Workmen’s Club.— The Rabbit, Pigeon, Bird, and Cat Show in connection with the above institution will be held at the Club-rooms on the 25th and 26th May

RUGBY. CAT, RABBIT, AND BIRD SHOW - Leicester Journal - Friday 28 May 1875
RUGBY. Cat, Rabbit, and Bird Show.—The annual exhibition of cats, rabbits, and birds was opened on Tuesday and extended over Wednesday. The cat show is new but very interesting addition, many of them are prize-takers in previous shows, and come from all parts of the kingdom. Mr. E. Hutton, Columbarian House, Leeds, was the judge.

CAT SHOW, RUGBY. Warwick and Warwickshire Advertiser - Saturday 29 May 1875
The annual exhibition of cats, rabbits, and birds was opened Tuesday, and extended over Wednesday. The cat show was a new but very interesting addition; many of them were prize-takers at previous shows, and came from all parts of the kingdom. Mr. Baker, of London, showed his “Lion," which has previously won fifteen first, two second, and nine special prizes. Miss Lancaster, of Bilton exhibited, not for competition, a long-haired cat (brought from Babylon) and kittens. Mr. E. Hutton, Columbarian House, Leeds, was the judge.

1875 EXETER CAT SHOW

EXETER DOG, RABBIT, AND CAT SHOW Western Times, 17th June 1875
VICTORIA HALL. EXETER DOG, RABBIT, AND CAT SHOW. THURSDAY AND FRIDAY, 17th and 18th JUNE. GREAT ATTRACTION! CHAMPION DOGS, CATS, RABBITS. [. . .] Admission to the Cat and Rabbit Show. - Thursday, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. 1s. 1 p.m. to 8 p.m., 6d. Friday, 6d all day. Children under 12 Years Age, Half-price

CAT, DOG, AND RABBIT SHOW AT EXETER. Western Times, 18th June 1875
The cat show excited a good deal of interest, and some splendid specimens of the feline race were in the cages. The Persian cats were very good. The first was a noble tabby and white cat, with nice coat, and in good condition, and the second was a beautiful pure Angora with a kitten; a doubt was expressed by the judge as to whether the kitten was its own. All three of the winners would take prizes at any show. Mrs. Smart's highly commended is a pretty little tabby, and promises to become a prize cat. The common class cats were in very large numbers, and made so good a show that one half of them came in for special mention. The first is owned by Mr. T. Fouracres, the Sword Bearer of the city ; it. was a pure silver tabby of great size and beauty, and far before any other cat of the class. The second, Mrs. Mogridge's, was a pure bred Maltese, slate color, with two pretty little kittens, and the mother had not a single white tick about her. Mrs. Champion's third prize winner was another beautiful silver tabby, with a noble head. Mr. Baxter's Lion, a brown tabby, ran the others very hard for a prize. The Manx cats were but two, and tortoiseshell were not a large class, nor did they come up to the standard, as a tortoiseshell should never have any white. At future shows it would be better to put matting into the cages instead of sawdust, the latter gets into the coats of the cats and soils them.

Persian—Male or female.—First £1, second 10s, third 5s - 1st, Mr. E. V. Hawkins, Exeter ; 2nd. Mr. W. H. Vinn, Exeter ; 3rd, Mr. J. S. Pocock, Great Birkhampstead, Hants; highly commended, Mr. J. Winkfield, Exwick, and Mrs. Smart; commended, Mrs. Ellen Smart, Budleigh Salterton.
Common—Male or female. - First £1, second 10s, third 5s - 1st, Mr. T. Fouracre, Exeter ; 2nd Mrs. Mogridge, Broadclyst; 3rd, Mr. A. M. Champion, St. Thomas, Exeter ; highly commended, Mr. W. T. Covering, St. Austell, Mr. Wm. Kelland, Bow, Rev. Reginald Worth, Newton Poppleford, Mr. E. Baxter, London Mr. T. Avenill, Brighton; commended, Mr. C. E. Pedler, Bow ; Mr. Geo. Stone, Alphington; Miss Mary Gilbert, Withycombe, Exmouth; Master W. Kerswell, Silverton ; Mrs. HeathKeld, Stoke Canon; Mr. j. Davy, Alphington ; Mr. J. Down, Exeter ; Mr. T. C. Woodbridge, Exeter.
Manx - Male or female - First £1, second 10s, third 5s - 1st, Mrs. E. Ware, Broadclyst ; 2nd, Miss C. Ware, Broadclyst.
Tortoiseshell - Male or female—First £1, second 10s, third 5s - 1st, Mr. J. Hurry, Norwich ; 2nd, Mr. F. Chauning, Stoke Canon,
The Judges were : Cats—Dr. Stables. Reading.

DOG, RABBIT, AND CAT SHOW, EXETER - Tiverton Gazette, 22nd June 1875
A show of dogs, rabbits and cats was opened on Thursday, at the Victoria Hail, in connection wit and in aid of the funds of the Devon and Exeter Horticultural and Botanical Society. The collection of animals was both numerous and good. [. . .]The rabbits were by far more plentiful than the cats [. . .]

DOG, RABBIT, AND CAT SHOW. Dorset County Chronicle, 24th June 1875
A dog, rabbit, and cat show, in connection with and for the benefit of the Devon and Exeter Botanical and Horticultural Society, was held at the Victoria Hall on Thursday and Friday. The prizes were liberal, over £100 being offered in money, besides three silver cups [. . .] The cats numbered only 40, hut formed an exceedingly good show, particularly in the "Persian" and "Common” classes, there being some animals exhibited which would take prizes at any show. The first prize winner in the "Common" class was a noble silver tabby of great beauty. The specimens in the Manx and Tortoiseshell classes were exceedingly limited.

1875 BURTON CAT SHOW

FLORAL AND HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. Burton Chronicle, 26th August 1875
The second exhibition took place yesterday in the Hay, and in its entirety surpassed any previous August show [. . .] THE CAT AND RABBIT SHOW was, of course, the most novel department on the ground. The specimens were exhibited in cages similar to those in which the poultry were placed, and many of them were fine animals both as regards size and quality. The tortoiseshell class was represented by some good animals, all females; but the best cat in the show was probably found amongst the tabbies, the first prize, a silver grey, being a well-marked and exceedingly fine and rare animal The longhaired class also produced many entries, and a better animal of its kind could scarcely be found than the one which took the first prize amongst the males. The first priz for females was also a remarkable specimen. The first prize in the any variety class was a fine animal, and has taken prizes at the Crystal Palace and other shows, and the second prize was awarded to a good specimen of the Manx breed
Tortoiseshell or Tortoiseshell-and-White –1st, C. Graves, Chesterfield; 2nd, S. J. Johnson, Station St.; 3rd, E. Vincent, Lichfield St.
Tabbies–1st: C. A. Sherwin, Winshill Freehold; 2nd, O. Oliver, Burntwood Asylum; 3rd, O. Brown, Station St.; h.c., W. T. Stretton. Stapenhill.
Long-hair (male) - 1st, T. Weightman, Warren Wood, Herts.; 2nd, Miss G. Taylor, Lichfield St.; 3rd, W. Kimber, Derby St.
Long-hair (female)– 1st, R. Hall, jun., Borough Fields, Walton; 2nd, S.A. Pocock, Gt. Berkhampstead; 3rd, T. Weightman.
Any other variety–1st, Mrs. Minton, Newcastle; 2nd, H. Hudson, Mosley St.; 3rd, J. Upton, Draycott House, Uttoxeter; h.c., W. Jones, Stapenhill.

FLORAL AND MUSICAL FETE AT BURTON. Staffordshire Sentinel, 26th August 1875
The town of Burton has become almost famous for its flower shows as for its beer, and hence it was, perhaps, that at the floral and musical fete which took place yesterday. [. . .] Besides the flower show, which is generally extensive one - and was so Yesterday - there was poultry show, pigeon show, cage bird show, and for the first time, a cat show. [. . .] The feline specimens certainly attracted a large share of attention, and a few really fine animals were shown. As a rule, puss does not care be caged like a bird, if she has no objection to fee caged with one, so it was not surprising that several of the cats greeted the visitors with a decidedly uncivil stare, and the prize tabby distinguished itself by saying, as clearly as the language of the eyes could express it: What are you staring at?

1875 BRECON CAT SHOW

BRECON DOG [AND CAT] SHOW. Monmouthshire Merlin, 27th August 1875
On Wednesday the annual dog, poultry, pigeon, canary, and cat show was held at Brecon. The dogs were shown in a field at the rear of the George Hotel, and the poultry, &c., in the Market House. The catalogue showed that the entries for dogs were 297, poultry 219, cats 29. The dogs exhibited were very fine, and much satisfaction was expressed at their appearance. The cats also attracted considerable attention.

BRECON DOG [AND CAT] SHOW. Brecon County Times, 28th August 1875
The cat show was a novel feature in the day's programme, and excited great curiosity and interest amongst the lookers on. In class 1 for long-haired cats of any colour, Mr. Harris's "Sankey," a splendid Angora white-coloured animal, took the first prize. Pussy showed signs of being anything but gentle and docile when visitors attempted to come within close quarters, giving vent to her "kindly" feelings by indulging in short growls and "spagging " at the bars of the cage. A yellow Persian was second. Class 2, for short-haired tabbies of any colour, was by far the best class, and Mr. Baxter's "Lion" took the first prize and a piece of plate. "Lion" has the reputation of having won about 18 prizes, including the first at the Crystal Palace Show. Still it was not the largest cat in the show Mr. Sparrow's "Dick," which weighed 15-and-a-half pounds, being much larger. Unfortunately it was speckled on the face and breast with white, and therefore could not be denominated a genuine tabby. It revived a "high com." In class 3 for tortoiseshells, all the animals shown were very poor, there not being a bona fide tortoiseshell amongst the lot. Most of them were tortoiseshell and white. In the "any other variety" class, Mr. Lloyd's black and white "Jace" was the prize animal. This was a special and a very good feature of the show. Some beautiful specimens of the cat tribe were exhibited. We anticipate in years to come that the Brecon Cat Show will be an annual attraction, if not the attraction of the dog and poultry show.
Class 1–Cats (long hair, any colour)–1st, Mr W. Harris, Merthyr; 2nd, Miss Kate Ford, Treholford; h.c., Mrs Garnons Williams, Abercamlais; and Mr John Miller, Brecon; c., Mr Joseph Joseph, Brecon.
Class 2–Tabby (short hair, any colour) – 1st and piece of plate, Mr Edward Baxter, London; 2nd, Mr John Bryant, Merthyr; 3rd, Mrs E. Lewis Lloyd, Glanbonddu; h.c., Mr David Thomas, Brecon; Mr John Morgan, Brecon, and Mr A. F. Sparrow, Abergavenny.
Class 3–Cats (tortoiseshell)–1st, Miss Maggie Jones, Brecon; 2nd, Mr Edward Maund, Brecon; 3rd, Mr John Richards, Cwm, Ffrwdgrech; h.c , Miss Eliza Wilson, Brecon.
Class 4–Any other variety–1st, Mr W. Lloyd, Hay; 2nd, Mrs G. June, Brecon; 3rd, Mr Edwin Hill, Brecon.

1875 CRYSTAL PALACE CAT SHOW

THE CAT SHOW. Morning Post , 6th October 1875
"The harmless, necessary cat" in all its varieties is now to be seen by the curious in matters feline at the Crystal Palace; for the Seventh National Cat Show began yesterday, and will be continued to-day and to-morrow. Taken as a whole the show must be regarded as an improvement upon last year's exhibition, although one looked in vain for any abnormal specimens among the 323 "Iota" in the cages in the nave. One monster cat there certainly is; he answers to the name of " Dick," is six years old, won the first prize at Camden-town in 1871, and is catalogued at the fancy price of £52 10s. -a fact which will in all probability ensure his remaining the property of his present owner, Mr. C. Hewitt. "Dick" is evidently conscious of his immense superiority to other cats, if indeed he is conscious of anything, which is problematical; for yesterday, after the judicial inspection which resulted in his receiving the first prize of £1, he did not deign to notice anything or anybody, but maintained a quiet reserve, which perhaps resulted from his obesity. Another "Dick," belonging to Miss Huntsman, takes the second prize in this class, "for the heaviest short-haired cat - tabby, any colour; judged by weight only,"

There are, of course, cats and cats - cats which have travelled, and others which have never been 100 yards from the domestic roof-tree. " Totty," the winner of the first prize in Class 1, for short-haired tortoiseshell and white he-cats, may properly be described as a travelled cat - one which has seen a great deal of the world in a lifetime of three years and nine months. Ten first prizes have been won by "Totty " – three at the Crystal Palace, two at Birmingham, one at Ipswich, Wolverhampton, Glasgow, Brighton, and Exeter, and a second prize at Bury. With, all these "blushing honours thick upon him" this successful cat bore himself modestly, seeming to find basking quietly in the sunlight the supremest pleasure of his cat life. The red tabby he-cats stand, like the four-and-twenty pipers, all in a row, though there are not by any means that large number exhibited at the Crystal Palace. The successful "tabby " in Class 4 is the property of Mrs. W. J. Nichols, and may be purchased for £20.

None but "fanciers " will appreciate all the varieties which are on view, but the meat unlearned will stop to admire Mrs. S. Barnes's beautiful drab coloured cat, which takes the first prize in Class 10, if for no other reason than that the colour is so seldom seen. Some curiosities will be seen in Class 11 and 22 in the shape of Manx and other cats, some with two hind legs and no front ones, and others with five claws on each foot. First prizes are taken by Mr. Peter Williams and Mrs. Noakes, and second honours in both classes by Mrs. Monkton White. One of the most interesting features of the show is Class 28 - the long-haired pure white she-cats, whose colour is perfect, while their long hair has about it a sheen which would move even a cat-hater to admiration.

The visitors to this exhibition may be divided into two classes - the amateur, who sees a "point" about every specimen, and the listless wanderer from cage to cage who can hardly distinguish a "Manx " from a " tortoiseshell." Both classes of spectators were present yesterday in large numbers, and no doubt the attendance will be considerably increased today and tomorrow; for the "Cat Show" is always one of the greatest attractions at Sydenham. Yesterday the interest, so far as one section of the visitors was concerned, was centred upon the pens containing the kittens, which were surrounded by children with nearly the same propensities as the playful animals they admired. Another exhibit which gained notoriety immediately the show opened was the "Leopard Cat," a native of India, and sent to the palace by Mr. Billett, a Southampton naturalist. The arrangements of the show are under the control of Mr. Wilson, the naturalist, whose exertions in previous years have made the cat exhibition both popular and instructive. Among the patrons of the show are Lady Dorothy Nevill, Dr. Gordon Stables, and Mr. Darwin. The judges are Messrs. Harrison Weir and J. Jenner Weir, and Dr. Gordon Stables.

CAT SHOW AT THE CRYSTAL PALACE. London Daily News, 6th October 1875
It is no slight test of the success of these exhibitions that this is the seventh successive year in which they have been held [incorrect: there were originally 2 shows per year], and this year’s show excels all its predecessors in point of numbers and in respect of quality. Mr. F.W. Wilson, the superintendent of the Natural History Department of the Palace, has had the show under his supervision from its commencement, and every year he is enabled to see the advancement of the particular object he has had in view, viz. the improvement in the breed of cats. 1875 as compared with 1874 shows an increase in the number of exhibits of nearly 50, and the class of animals exhibited is of a much higher standard than that of previous years. The interest in the show also has increased year by year, until it is a fair matter for doubt whether there is a more popular exhibit held in the Palace, especially amongst ladies and children. Inducements have been held out to working men and their families to exhibit, in the shape of reduced entrance fees and a selling class, and they have been so far successful that some of the finest animals in the show are sent by working men.

Mr. Wilson, in order to keep up a constant stimulus to breeders, and to improve the character of the show, forms one or two fresh classes every year, and by this means new varieties of the species are introduced. The directors of the Palace offer £100 in prizes, which sum is added to by others who are interested in the affair, so that nothing is wanting to encourage the proprietors of cats of any merit to come forward. Even if unsuccessful in the competition they have the satisfaction of knowing that their pets, while at the Palace are well fed and well taken care of. Each morning a hundredweight of the best parts of horseflesh is cooked for the cats, and they are supplied twice a day with new milk, of which 10 gallons daily are consumed. With this fare most of the exhibitors are content, though occasionally it is not esteemed good enough; and a case occurred yesterday of a gentleman arriving early at the Palace with his cat’s breakfast of two courses consisting of a smelt fried in egg and breadcrumbs, followed by the wing of a roast chicken.

The show as usual is held in the south nave, and the animals are exhibited in cages on either side and in the middle. The classes are 49 in number, in each of which three prizes are offered. The chief divisions of the exhibition are short-haired cats and long-haired cats. These are again subdivided into he and she cats, tabbies, tortoiseshell, white and black cats and kittens, and of the latter an unusually large number are exhibited. Several Manx tailless cats appeared in the show, and one Siamese cat. The first animal in point of number, is a tortoiseshell with such a palpable tinge of gamboge about it, that the judges affixed the significant remark to their award, “very badly dyed.” The modest price of £120 was asked for the dyed one.

Among the more remarkable specimens may be notices a cat of Archangel breed, no 116, and a female red tabby No. 117A, which is quite as much of a rarity as a tortoiseshell Tom. Mr. Jones’s “Rough,” No. 166(?) is distinguished for the length and fine texture of its hair, while Miss Shorthouse’s tabby, No. 202, is chiefly remarkable for possessing a properly authenticated pedigree for six generations, and for being priced by its owner at £10,000. The heaviest cat in the show is Miss huntsman’s “Dick,” No. 236, which turns the scale at 18lbs, and Miss Merchant exhibits a black short hair that enjoys the honourable distinction of having brought forth 64 kittens in seven years, that probably being an instance of fecundity even for a cat [note: average 9 per year]. The rest of the animals in the show are well worth seeing, and will doubtless attract large numbers of visitors during today and tomorrow.

CAT SHOW AT THE CRYSTAL PALACE. The Hour, 6th October 1875
The cat holds a place of too much importance in our domestic economy for an event like the show of yesterday to be approached in anything but the gravest spirit. At the same time one is deferentially inclined to doubt that if the discovery of mouse-traps had been made simultaneously with the first appearance of mice the cat would ever have grown into an institution. The fact is that our feline protegee, which at present is as indispensable from custom as it was once from utility, has too many questionable attributes for one to take it readily by the paw, if it were put forward now as a new applicant for public favour. On the contrary, a calm consideration of the advantages and disadvantages of cat keeping would probably result in the banishment of this misguided animal to its original dwelling-places in woods, or in its culture and improvement as an article of food, for which itis stated not to be altogether unsuitable. A dog enters into your confidence, a monkey even you can make a friend of, but a cat you can never depend on for attachment or look to for obedience. It must be all or nothing in your house - instance the air of exasperating disgust with which it leaves the room on your approach if you disturb it in its occupation of your hearth-rug or your arm-chair. Instead of sinking socially and modestly into a subordinate place in your circle, it rather takes up the position of a patronising guest. Scarcely condescending to be civil, it lies with you, but apart from you it would as soon make a raid upon your supper as your neighbour's, and nearly as soon scratch your children as his, should they unwittingly overstep the danger line of the moment, a line as variable as women, without whom the cat could not be. It would be hard to find the reason why the ladies have countenanced it through ages of intractability, irritability, and duplicity, had not they been children once, and the cat once a kitten; but no doubt early associations go as far here as in other things; it is a pity that cats cannot be always kittens, nevertheless. As they cannot, we must try and make them better cats, if not as regards personal character, at least as regards appearance, which is the next thing, purity of breed, rarity, size: . and colour, and it is to this end that the seventh national show at the Crystal Palace opened yesterday, is held under the patronage of Lady Dorothy Nevill, Mesdames F. Cashel-Hoey, Ada Edmonds, and M. A. Newton, Dr Gordon Stables, and Mr. Charles Darwin, F.R.S. The exhibition, which has got up under the able and energetic superintendence of Mr. F.W. Wilson, of the company's natural history department, occupies the greater portion of the southern transept, where the 339 exhibits –a number considerably over that of last year –are - arranged severally in a series of wire-fronted zinc boxes, on four longitudinal stages from end to end.

A general idea of the collection and the principal special features will be best gathered from a glance at the prize list. In Class 1, unless an orange and black eccentricity, which looks as though it had been dyed, is belied, is the only short-haired tortoiseshell and white he cat in the show (the next rarest thing to a pure tortoiseshell he cat) Mr. John Hurrey's Totty, which, of course, carried off the honours. Classes 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6, were for various kinds of tabby he cats, and the winners are (brown) Miss Vyse, W. Flitton, and Miss Marchant; (blue or silver) Miss Ida Cantrell, Miss Brander, and Mr. Graham Ellis; (red) Mrs. W. J. Nichols, Mr. S. Collier. and Mrs. Ellen Traer; (red and white) Mrs. Lees and Miss Warren; (spotted) Mrs. J. Moore, Mr. W. Purton, and Mrs. F. Tyler. Class 7 was for short-haired black and white cats, and the winners are Mr. R. Penwell, Mr. T. D. Fanning, and Mr. J. Harpin. The short-haired black and short-haired white he cats in classes 8 and 9 are exceedingly pure and in good condition. The prizes were awarded to Mr. N. Elam, Mrs. Shuckard, and Mrs. Fossett, Mrs. Robinson, Mrs. G. Kittlety, and Mrs. H. George. In Class 10 (unusual colour) there are only two exhibits, and both the cats have that dark slatey-looking coat which is called blue by the experts. Mrs. S. Barnes and Mr. F. E. Baker take the prizes Class 11 is the curiosity section. It is for any other variety of colour than the foregoing, or singular form of species, and includes four Manx cats without tails, one animal but with two legs, and another with five claws to each foot. The winners are Mr. Peter Williams, Mr. Monkton White, and Miss Blagden for Manx animals. The tortoiseshell she cats in Class 12 have all that handsome dark coat which contrasts so richly with the diluted tortoiseshell and white of Class 13. The successful competitors in the two classes are Mrs. R. Bailey, Mr. John Brotherton, and Mr. J. T. Allcock, and Mr. H. H. Wood, Mr. H. Strofton, and Master A. W. Boatwright. Brown tabbies, and blue or silver tabby she's form Classes 14 and 15 with Mr. Hellier, Mr J. Edwards, and Miss Nettie Shorthouse, and Mr. Monkton White, Mrs. Durman, and Mr. John Hampshire for successful competitors. A special first prize was given to Mr. N. Ogle in Class 16 (red tabby and white she cats), for a pure red tabby, one which is as rare as the tortoiseshell he; the tabby he's, which are common enough, are the fathers of the tortoiseshell race. Shorthaired spotted tabbies, black and white, pure black, and pure white she cats, compose Classes 17 to 20, with prizes to Mrs. Newton, Mrs. Minnie Moore, and Mr. J. A. Houndle, Mrs. J. Harpin, J. Abbott, and J. Abbot, Mr. J. Wilsher, Mr. H. M. Maynard, and Miss Merchant, and Mrs. E. E. Mackness, Miss M. A. Wellman, and Mr T. Rochester as winners. In Class 21 (for short-haired unusual coloured she cats) the first prize is held by Mr. J. Walter for a rich fawn-coloured Siamese cat with black points; it looks like a pug, and is a curiosity not only from its appearance, but from the jealousy with which the Siamese Government guards against the exportation of the species. The other prizes were taken by, Miss Vyse and Mr. T. Johnson, with Mr. W. Wookey as an equal third for an extraordinary-looking hare coloured cat. Class 22 contains another cat with five claws to the foot, but the awards were to Mrs. Noakes, Mr. Monkton White, and Mr. Peter Williams, all for Manx cats. It is as hard to decide as to which among the kittens in Class 23 are the two best marked as it is to believe that all the exhibits are under six months old; the winners are Miss J. Cooper, Miss H. King, Mr. E. Horner.

In the long-haired classes, the smooth Persians and fluffy Angoras are found in great quantity and variety. They are 24 (pure white he's), winners Miss E. Fogarty, Mr. C. Wall, and Mrs. Clarke; 25 (black he's), Rev. R. W. Vickers, Mr. F. Bryant, and Mrs. Dreadon; 26 (tabby he's), Mrs. E. A. Collier, Mr. G. H Jones, and Mr. J. Bristow - Mr. Jones's exhibit is a handsome light fawn coloured animal, with a tail like a fox; 27 (long-haired he's, unusual colours), Miss Thompson, Miss Boville, and Mr. J. Bristow; 28 (pure white she's), Miss E. A. Bryant, Mr. H. M. Maynard, and Mr. T. Weightman; 29 (black she's), Mr. J. S. Pocock and Mr. J. Bristow; 30 (tabby she's) Mr. T. Rochester, Miss C. S. Thompson, Mr. J. Lowden; 31 Mr. E. E. Smith, Mr. C. Greenwood, and Miss Brander; and 32 (the best two kittens under six months) Miss Brander, Mr. Thomas Weightman, and Miss A. Pocock.

There is a host of exhibits in 33, which begins classes for cats of no sex, extending to 42 inclusive. For the best tabby, Mr. M. Kuhlmorgen, Mr. G. B. Wheeler, and Mrs. S. F. W. Harris took the prizes; and in 34, the heaviest short-haired tabby of any colour was Mr. C. Howett's “Dick," 18 lb, Miss Huntsman's "Dick," coming next, and Mr. J. Tate's Tom following at 14-and-half. The heaviest short-haired white cat was Mr. C.W. Fletcher’s half Persian, and the heaviest short-haired black or black and white, and unusual coloured cats were Mr. W. K. Taunton's "Tommy" and Mr. Scarman's “Bob.” Miss F. Carmen won the first prize for the heaviest long-haired black or black-and-white, and Mr. T. Weightman for the heaviest long-haired white cat.

The best black and white he cat - the only exhibit - was that of Mr. Robert Morris in Class 43, which began the section for working men, to whom prizes were offered by the patrons and others for the encouragement of the kind treatment of domestic cats, and the best tabby and white one, that of Mrs. Couldrey, in Class 44. The best black cat (Class 46) was declared to be Mr. B. Tulley's English "Dick," and Mr. E. Broderick obtained the prize for the best litter of kittens in Class 47. In Classes 48 and 49, for cats of no sex, belonging to working men, the prizes were awarded to Mrs. Gregory, Mr. R. Wood and Mr. D. McAdam, Mr. William Watson, Mr. John Morris and Mr. John Curtis. No award was made in Class 42 (wild or hybrid), in which Mr. Billett's spotted Indian cat, looking fierce in its solitary cage, excited much attention.

In spite of the difficulty of seizing the distinctive characteristics of the animal he was dealing with, Mr. Wilson was able to classify his exhibition in a way to enable the judges to complete their really arduous labours betimes. These gentlemen, Messrs. Harrison Weir, F.R.H.S., J. Jenner Weir, F.L.S., and Dr. Gordon Stables spoke highly of the character of the exhibition, and there is no doubt that their testimony will be borne out by the amateurs, who will make it their duty to visit Sydenham while it continues. But outside its claims upon special visitors, it has a claim upon the public generally - even on that portion which does not hold the cat in most esteem, because the good results in cat culture which it presents could only have been obtained by kindly treatment, and because of the beauty and interest of the show as a mere spectacle.

CATS AT THE CRYSTAL PALACE. The Sun, 7th October 1875
The Seventh Annual Cat Show at the Crystal Palace, Sydenham, has opened under favourable auspices. This year's show excels its predecessors in quantity and quality. The interest in the show also has increased year by year, until it is a fair matter for doubt whether there is a more popular exhibition held in the Palace, especially amongst ladies and children.

The directors of the Palace offer £100 in prizes, and additions are made to this sum by persons interested in the affair. The greatest care is taken of the cats during their stay in the place. Each morning 1 cwt. of the best parts of horseflesh is cooked for the cats, and they are supplied twice a day with new milk, of which 1f gallons daily are consumed. n some isolated cases, however, the owners bring provisions for the favourite.

Some interesting details are furnished of special candidates for public favour. The cat “Lion,” in Class 33 might furnish the materials for a feast with his various trophies. He was the winner of the first prize at the Crystal Palace show of 1873. Since then he has won 19 first prizes for “the best tabby cat” in the different shows, and nine special prizes for the best cat, consisting of three silver cups, one silver collar, three silver-plated mugs, one silver tea service, and one silver cruet-stand and fittings.

Among the feline specimens exhibited extraordinary names are met with and conspicuous on the roll appears that of “Chillingowullabadorie.” There are also a sort-haired black gentleman called “Pharaoh Pugstiles,” and not far from him a white fellow-prisoner known of “Botherem,” and a little farther on frisk in their cage three lively kittens, aged one month each, and respectively rejoicing in the appellations of “Charles Wyndham,” “Rose Hersee,” and “Blanche Cole.”

It is interesting to notice that cats belonging to the working classes obtain a large share of admiration. In this class the prize is awarded according to weight only, this being, and not unreasonably, considered the best criterion of the care and kind treatment of the owner.

Miss Shorthouse’s tabby, No. 202, is chiefly remarkable for possessing a properly authenticated pedigree for six generations, and for being priced by its owner at £10.000. There is a “monster cat” who answers to the name of “Dick,” is six years old, won the first prize at Camden Town in 1871, and is catalogued at the fancy price of £52 10s. – a fact which will in all probability insure his remaining the property of his present owner, Mr. C. Hewitt. Another “Dick” is also remarkable for size, as a proof of the success and popularity of the Cat shows. It is worth noticing that seven years ago [note: seven shows ago, there being 2 shows per year] there were but 62 cats found to brace the verdict of the judges. This year there are no less that 323 cages numbered in the catalogue, many of them holding more than one occupant.

THE CRYSTAL PALACE CAT SHOW. Various, 6th - 9th October 1875
In this age of shows, when everything that flies, or walks, or swims is for ever being exhibited to our more or leas enraptured gaze, it is right that this show should hold its own. We have shows of horses, cattle, sheep, dogs, even of goats and donkeys, of poultry and pigeons; of bees, their hives, [. . .]. Why not, then, a show of cats? This, which opened yesterday, is the seventh show that has been held under the roof of the Crystal Palace. Seven years ago there were but 62 cats found to brave the verdict of the judges. This year there are no less than 323 cages numbered in the catalogue, many of them holding more than one occupant. Among these cages, or rather among their occupants, are distributed no less than 187 prizes, varying in value from one guinea to half-a-crown in one particular class, in addition to the money prize, a silver cup is offered as the meed of the fairest. For every entry a sum of 3s 6d is urged, save in certain classes, where the fee is one or two shillings, notably in the class confined to working men, to whom some of the ladies and gentlemen of the Committee, headed by Lady Dorothy Neville, offer special prizes as an inducement to the care and kind treatment of the animal; in this class the fee is 2s.

Every care is taken of the candidates during the three days of the show. Their cages are quite large enough for comfort, and in many cases are embellished and made gay by the fond care of the owner. Food and drink are supplied at discretion - not the discretion of the cats, but of the manager. As before, the cage of each successful animal is marked by a little blue flag - a capital plan, as the visitor is thereby enabled to make his way to the various points of interest without any useless tarrying before unworthy cages. Indeed, to the ignorant and possibly prejudiced eye, so strong a similarity between one cat and another, save where the colour differs - and as these animals are all ranged in classes, we get a long array of tabbies, tortoise-shells, blacks, whites, and greys, with apparently no distinguishing mark, save the little blue flag - that the visitor does need some little help to his judgment. Messrs. Harrison Weir and Jenner Weir are again the judges, and find, no doubt, in Dr. Gordon Stables an able assistant in a task we should imagine of no ordinary difficulty.

It is hardly possible that there can be any species of cat, of which, at least, we know, is unrepresented in this show. The common domestic cat, beloved of old ladies, and, though to a different end, of schoolboys, is here to be seen in all his, her, or its glory. Black cats, looking somewhat fiendish, and white cats, looking decidedly dirty; tabbies, surely the handsomest, and tortoise-shell - we beg pardon of the connoisseur - perhaps the ugliest of all. Then there are red cats, and some what we should be inclined to call yellow cats, and one fearful looking creature, black, relieved with patches of orange. Cats of abnormal colour, form, or species, including a Manx cat born with no fore-legs, a cat with five claws on each foot, some very fine animals of a pretty soft silver-grey hue, and an Indian wild cat- a very leopard in miniature, and, to judge from its looks, about as safe to make pet of. Like a good many other things whose value is measured by their curiosity, these “abnormal” cats are mostly by no means fair to look upon, but an exception must be made in favour of “Mymie,” a Siamese cat belonging to Mr. Walter, and winner of more than one prize. This breed is, we believe, very highly valued in its own country, and its purity very strictly maintained ; but, were not its birth and parentage so fairly set down in the catalogue, we should confess to some few doubts. Mymie bears in some of her points a wonderful similarity to a pug. There are some charming little groups of kittens, gazing at which it is impossible not to feel a momentary pang of regret that they should ever grow any larger, for, next perhaps to a fox cub, the kitten is the prettiest and most graceful of all young animals.

But, of all the 50 classes into which the 323 cats here assembled have been divided, indisputably the handsomest, apart from any considerations of monetary value, is Class 33, for tabby cats of no sex. It is in this class that a silver cup is offered for the best over and above the usual prize of £1, and both cup and money go to Master Shuckard for his cat “Tommy Dodd,” animal of mature yean, and, no doubt, great excellence, but certainly inferior to size to many of his fellows, notably one in the very next cage. The donor of the cup is Mr. E. Baxter, who also shows bin own tabby cat “Lion” who won the first prize here in 1873, and since then has won no less than nineteen first, besides special, prizes. It is evidently modesty alone that prevents Mr. Baxter adding his own cup to the list. Lastly we come to the cats owned by working men. Among these the prize is awarded according to weight only, this being, and not unreasonably, considered the best criterion of the care and kind treatment of the owner. Mrs. Gregory takes the prize this year with her cat “Tom,” who draws 14 and one half lbs in the scales - a weight which, we think, has been passed on more than one previous occasion. Here our brief notice must end. We cannot pretend to have done justice to the individual merits of so many such distinguished animals.

CRYSTAL PALACE CAT SHOW. South London Press, 9th October 1875
On Tuesday the seventh show of cats, in its way a unique exhibition, was opened at the Crystal Palace. Seven years ago [note: seven shows ago, there being 2 shows per year] there were but 62 cats found to brave the verdict of the judges. This year there were no less than 323 cages numbered in the catalogue, many of them holding more than one occupant. Among these cages, or rather among their occupants, were distributed no less than 137 prizes, varying in value from one guinea to half a crown, and in one particular class, in addition to the money prize, a silver cup was offered as the meed of the fairest. For every entry a sum of 3s. 6d. was charged, save in certain classes, where the fee was one or two shillings, notably in the class confined to working men, to whom some of the ladies and gentlemen of the committee, headed by Lady Dorothy Neville, offered special prizes as an inducement to the care and kind treatment of the animal; in this class the fee was 2s. As before, the cage of each successful animal was marked by a little blue flag - a capital plan, as the visitor was thereby enabled to make his way to the various points of interest without any useless tarrying before unworthy cages. Indeed, to the ignorant and possibly prejudiced eye, so strong a similarity was there between one cat and another, save where the colour differed - and, as these animals were all ranged in classes, we got a long array of tabbies, tortoise-shells, blacks, whites, and greys, with apparently no distinguishing mark save the little blue flag - that the visitor needed some little help to his judgment. Messrs. Harrison Weir and Jenner Weir were again the judges, and found, no doubt, in Dr. Gordon Stable an able assistant in a task we should imagine of no ordinary difficulty.

It was hardly possible that there could be any species of cat, of which, at least, we know, unrepresented in the show. The common domestic cat, beloved of old ladies, and, though to a different end, of schoolboys, was to be seen in all his, her, or its glory. Black cats, looking somewhat fiendish, and white eats, looking decidedly dirty; tabbies, surely the handsomest, and tortoise-shell - we beg pardon of the connoisseur - perhaps the ugliest or all. Then there were red cats, and some that we should be inclined to call yellow cats, and one fearful looking creature, black, relieved with patches of brilliant orange. Cats of abnormal colour, form, or species, including a Manx cat born with no fore-legs, a cat with five claws on each foot, some very fine animals of a pretty soft silver-grey hue, and an Indian wild cat - a very leopard in miniature, and, to judge from its look, about as safe to make a pet of. Like a good many other things whose value is measured by their curiosity, these "abnormal" cats were mostly by no means fair to look upon, but an exception should be made in favour of "Mymie," a Siamese cat belonging to Mr. Walter, and a winner of more than one prize. This breed is, we believe, very highly valued in its own country, and its purity very strictly maintained; but, were not its birth and parentage so fairly set down in the catalogue, we should confess to some few doubts. Mymie bears in some of her points a wonderful similarity to a pug. There were some charming little groups of kittens, gazing at which it was impossible not to feel a momentary pang of regret that they should ever grow any larger, for, next perhaps to a fox cub, the kitten is the prettiest and most graceful of young animals. But of all the 50 classes into which the 323 cats here assembled were divided, indisputably the handsomest, apart from any consideration of monetary value, was Class 33, for tabby cats of no sex. It was in this class that a silver cup was offered for the best over and above the usual prize of £l, and both cup and money went to Master Shuckard for his cat “Tommy Dodd," an animal of mature years, and, no doubt, great excellence, but certainly inferior in size to many of his fellows, notably one in the very next cage. The donor of the cup was Mr. E. Baxter, who also showed his own tabby cat "Lion," who won the first prize here in 1873, and since then has won no less than 19 first, besides special prizes. It was evidently modesty alone that prevented Mr. Baxter adding his own cup to the list.

Lastly, we came to the cats owned by working men. Among these the prize was awarded according to weight only, this being, and not unreasonably, considered the best criterion of the care and kind treatment of the owner. Mrs. Gregory took the prize this year with her cat "Tom," who drew 14 lbs in the scales - a weight which, we think, has been passed on more than one previous occasion. As heretofore, the arrangements were under the able guidance of Mr. F. W. Wilson, and were as satisfactory as the most fastidious could desire.

CATS AT THE CRYSTAL PALACE Lynn Advertiser, 9th October 1875
[. . .] The curiosity of the show was a black fellow belonging to Mr. Thomas Cullen, of Lambeth, who was born with only two legs (hind ones) and no front legs.

CAT SHOW AT THE CRYSTAL PALACE. Various, 13th October 1875
The seventh national cat show, held under the patronage of Lady Dorothy Nevill, Mrs. F Cashel, Mrs. Ada Edmonds, Mrs. M. A. Newton, Mr. Darwin, F.R.S., etc, was opened on Monday at the Crystal Palace. The show contains 323 . In short-haired tortoiseshell and white cats, the prize has been awarded to Mr. John Hurry for “Tottery,”[Totty] aged 3 years 10 months, and the winner of ten first prizes. In this class there is an extraordinary-looking animal, deep orange and black, valued by its owner at £120; but its ugliness had not secured it prize. There are some fine animals among the shorthaired brown tabby cats, the first prize for which has fallen to Miss Veryse for “Dick,” two years old. He is a large, intelligent-looking animal, and is said to be a good ratter and docile. Cats larger than “Dick” are to be found in the next class for short-haired blue or silver tabby cats, for one of which Miss C. Ida Cantrell has secured an award. The largest cat in the show is, however, is No. 237, shorthaired tabby, weighing 18lb., which has secured the prize. Near to him is another fine animal, Tom,” four years old.

One cat is of a light slate colour, and most extraordinary looking, though at the same time a rather attractive, animal. Mr. J. Walter takes first prize for “Myrnie.” another odd-looking specimen. It is a Siamese cat, five years old, is mouse coloured, shading off into a black patch on the head, and has three little whitey-brown kittens. There are several Manx cats, tailless of course; and a poor animal born without front legs. A cat sent for exhibition by Mr. T. Gregory has five claws on each foot. In the class for short-haired black she cats a third prize is awarded to the owner of a cat which has been mother of sixty-four kittens. An Indian wild cat, the first exhibited at the Crystal Palace for three years, is shown.

THE CAT SHOW AT THE CRYSTAL PALACE. The Illustrated Sporting and Dramatic News, 16th October, 1875
THE facile pencil of Mr. R. H. Moore has presented us with portraits of the chief prize-winners at the Crystal Palace Cat Show, held on the 5th, 6th, and 7th of this month. It is probably owing to the exertions of Mr. Wilson, of the Natural History department of the Crystal Palace, that this feline exhibition has been so firmly established that we now look upon the Cat Show as an annual fixture. The judges this year were Mr. Harrison Weir, Dr. Gordon Stables, R.N., and Mr. J. J. Weir, whilst Lady Dorothy Neville and Mr. Charles Darwin were among the patrons. It is not known whether it is in pursuance of his researches as to the “ origin of species” that Mr. Darwin is studying the cat, and whether the philosopher intends in a forthcoming volume to demonstrate that man - or, rather, woman - is descended from a tabby, no matter what fundamental objection may be taken to his theory. Certain it is, however, that Mr. Darwin’s patronage of the Cat Show was a well-merited honour. There were 323 cats exhibited; and not a few were really splendid creatures. A glance at the specimens illustrated will prove this. Not to dwell upon the Manx cats and other curious animals exhibited, nor to comment upon the prize-list generally (for that we have not space), we may simply add a few explanatory remarks respecting the prize-winners represented by Mr. Moore. It is the fine cat which many good judges said should have been awarded the first prize in the handsomest class, that of tabbies of no sex [neuters], which figures at the top of the engraving to the right - viz.,No. 214, Mr. G. B. Wheeler’s, which actually won the second prize in class 33. The lucky winner of the silver cup and first prize in the same class is pictured just below. Tommy Dodd is the name he answers to, and his age is nine years; whilst his rival is only three years and six months old. Master Shuckard is the fortunate owner of Tommy Dodd. The third prize in this same class was carried off by Tiger, No. 217, exhibited by the proprietors of the ‘Illustrated Sporting and Dramatic News,’ and the pet of one of our publishers. Next to Tiger in the illustration comes the Indian wild cat belonging to Mr. George Billett, who carried off the first prize “for any wild or hybrid between wild and domestic or other cat;” and beside this wild native of the land the Prince of Wales is journeying to is delineated the fine Siamese cat of Mr. J. Walter: Myrnie, aged five years, victor in class 21 for “short-haired unusual-coloured she-cats.” Dick, the next prize-winner drawn by our artist, was pronounced the best cat in class 2 for “ short-haired brown tabby he-cats,” and Miss Vyse, Dick’s owner, describes him in the catalogue as “English pure-bred” and “a good ratter and docile.” Mr. John Hurry’s Totty, the first prize in class 1, is probably not included in Mr. Moore’s illustration for the reason that Totty is so well known, being the winner of no less than ten first prizes - viz., three at the Crystal Palace, two at Birmingham, one at Ipswich, Wolverhampton, Glasgow, Brighton, and Exeter, and a second prize at Bury, besides the Crystal Palace prize of last week.

[CRYSTAL PALACE SHOW] Trinidad Chronicle, 16th November 1875
A very popular Cat-show has been held at the Crystal Palace. There were 50 more exhibits than last year, and hundreds in all, sorted into 49 classes with 3 prizes in each class. The heaviest weight was 18 lbs, and one had honorable mention for fecundity (64 kittens in 7 years). One was labelled by the judges ‘Very badly dyed’! The show was kept open for three days.

THE CAT SHOW AT THE CRYSTAL PALACE. Monmouthshire Beacon, 23rd October 1875
It is astonishing when we begin to set ourselves seriously to study the ways and habits of an animal, even when the type it represents is a low or repulsive one, how much of our sympathy goes out to the creature, and how we end in absolutely liking it (remarks the Pictorial World). It is pleasant also to be able to add that this sympathy when intelligently used is as intelligently reciprocated, and that the creature ends up liking, sometimes even in loving, us. [. . .] We have been led into this train of thought by the Cat Show which was held at the Crystal Palace last week. Such exhibitions tend unmistakably to increase our knowledge, and we are glad think that the one in question met all its usual success.

THE LONDON CAT SHOW – Daily Record of the Times, November 4, 1875
It would not seem possible that there is sufficient interest to the matter in England, in these busy times, to aid in the breeding and training of cats. But, nevertheless, such is the case, and the fact that the annual cat show at the Crystal Palace, London, this year attracted some five thousand pussies shows it [note: most likely many were double-counted due to be entered in multiple classes!]. Miss Pussy is in high favor in London, and every household shelters one or two and some half a dozen. So much care and love being devoted to cats in London it is not surprising that the efforts of the Crystal Palace authorities to improve the breed as well as to encourage the kind treatment of the animals, should be successful. Each cage contained a cushion for pussy, a little saucer filled with milk, &c, while the prize cats were distinguished by a blue ring hung from the top.

Some idea of the enterprise of the authorities at the palace may be gathered from the fact that about one hundred and thirty prizes were offered for competition from five pounds-to fifteen shillings, while marks of distinction, which are equally coveted, such as “very highly commended,” are also awarded. The best tabby cat received a silver cup, for which there were thirty-six contestants. The fortunate animal was Master Shuckard’s “Tommy Dodd,” aged nine years, and valued at $500. The winner of the second prize was also held at the same amount, while the value attached to others in the same class was never below $25. Miss Shorthouse’s cat “age unknown, possessed a tabular pedigree for six generations,” and valued by its owner at $50,000, but in face of these substantial arguments Miss S.’s favorite received only a high “commendation.” Other of the candidates were magnificent crea-tures graceful in their movements, their furs shining with gloss resembling the richest velvet. The average weight of each was about sixteen and one-half pounds. One of the prizes was for the “heaviest cat in the show,” and this was won by a specimen weighing a few ounces over eighteen pounds. Few of the pussies showed bad tempers; the exceptions were among the black cats, which seemed discount[ent]ed. Very different was the conduct of the long-haired Angora species, with their splendid coats white as snow, their pink eyes and fiery appearance forming one of the most interesting features.

The Cat Show took place on October 5th to October 7th, 1875. The Judges were Mr Harrison Weir, Mr J Jenner Weir, and Dr Gordon Stables R.N. The Patrons were Lady Dorothy Nevill and Mr Charles Darwin. The Siamese with kittens was Mymie, owned by Mr J. Walter. Mymie took First prize for shorthaired unusual coloured she-cats. At the bottom of the illustration is an Indian Wild Cat exhibited by Mr George Billett. Billett later became a Cat Judge at the Crystal Palace Cat Shows of the 1880s and 1890s. - The Illustrated Sporting and Dramatic News, October 16, 1875

Sydenham Palace, England, has recently been the scene of a remarkable cat show. The English cat must differ materially from the American feline if it has to be taken into the magnificent apartments of a palace in order to make an exhibition of itself. The American Tabby has a peculiar way of showing its own eccentricities without being placed before the august presence of a committee sitting in solemn judgment on the case. England may take a national interest in her felines, but the interest the people of this country have in their cats is simply of a local nature. A Yankee Tabby is, of all animals, the most capable of showing itself, and its shows are such as never fail to attract the attention of humanity. Our dogs will idle about the thresholds of our homes, and now and again pass out to the sidewalk and bring back a sample of some unfortunate passer-by, but they woefully lack the ability that is innate with our felines to pounce on to the upper shelf of our pantries and overthrow a dozen preserve jars in their activity to secure a piece of cold roast beef or puncture the surface of a well-filled milk pan with their whiskered proboscides. Our dogs may frisk about and snap the feathers from the backs of our neighbors’ fowls in a manner that stirs the spirit of hostility and puts a stop, for the time being, to social intercourse and the custom of borrowing butter, but it is well known that they cannot jump into a henery with that agility noticed in our cats and suck enough eggs in fifteen minutes to make a large family happy on Easter Sunday; but at night they show themselves to the best advantage. An English cat may require a palace to be interesting in, but one born and bred under the benign influences of our great republican institutions will occupy a plain slab on the rear roof of an humble cottage and in less than ten straightforward howls attract the attention of the entire neighborhood, besides drawing forth all the emphatic expressions, old boots, hair brushes, books and other light moveables that may perchance be accessible. English cat-shows may be popular, but it is a universal feeling with the American people that our feline exhibitions seldom meet with approbation or praise. - National Republican, November 11, 1875

COLONEL FORNEY AT A CAT SHOW. – The Inter Ocean, November 5, 1875
Pussy in the Crystal Palace – How the Prize Felines Are Distinguished – Master Shuckard’s “Tommy Dodd,” the Champion Cat of all England.
Colonel Forney writes as follows from London to the Philadelphia Press: Curiosity is a controlling element in human nature, and yet when Charles Sprague made it the subject of a beautiful poem many years ago he never anticipated, even in his fruitful imagination, what strange schemes it would suggest. He never, certainly, dreamed of a baby show or a fat man’s exhibition. He might have had a vision of dogs in pens, of goats, and of donkeys, but I do not think he ever conceived such a thing as a national cat show in London. And yet it is just that which is now going on at the Crystal Palace, Sydenham, and this is the seventh of the annual series. Some years ago, an ingenious American advertised for thousands of cats, which were to be utilised for their skins, but the enterprise closed — no joke is intended — in a catastrophe, and it was not until the authorities of the Crystal Palace took the matter in hand that our feline friends were put to any practical purpose outside of their fidelity as household favorites and their dexterity as rat-catchers. The present season attracted no less than 213 exhibitors.

It would not seem possible that there is sufficient interest in the matter in England, in these busy times, to aid in the breeding and training of cats. But, nevertheless, such is the case, and the fact that the seventh annual cat show of the Crystal Palace, Sydenham, attracts no less than 213 exhibitors, shows it […] So much care and love being devoted to cats in London, it was not surprising that the efforts of the Crystal Palace authorities to improve the breed, as well as to encourage the kind treatment of the animals, should be successful. At first numbers of people were attracted by the novelty of the scene alone, but, though this section of the visitors to the cat show is still large, many now come with a party of children.

The Crystal Palace itself is familiar to Americans. The center transept, at once a beautiful promenade and a delightful resting place, was crowded yesterday by the visitors who came to see the cats in cages down each side. Each cage contained a cushion for pussy, a little saucer filled with milk, etc, while the prize cats were distinguished by a blue flag hung from the top. Some idea of the enterprise of the authorities at the palace may be gathered from the fact that about 130 prizes were offered for competition, from £5 to 15 shillings, while marks of distinction, which are equally coveted, such as “very highly commended” are also awarded. In certain classes, where there is a great competition, and only say three prizes, those cats which are highly commended have a good chance of carrying off the first prizes at local shows or exhibitions, where their standing would be more completely recognised. The best tabby cat received a silver cup. For this prize there was a general rivalry; there were thirty-six candidates, and as they were all first-class the decision of the judges was not made until after much discussion. The prizemen at last appeared in Master Shuckard’s “Tommy Dodd,” aged 9 years, and valued at £100 ($500): the winner of the second prize was also held at the same amount, while the value attached to others in the same clam was never below £5.

Miss Shorthouse’s cat, “age unknown, possesses a tabular pedigree for six generations,” and valued by its owner at £10,000, but in face of these substantial arguments, Miss Shorthouse’s favorite was not among the prizes, only receiving a high “commendation.” Other of the candidates ware magnificent creatures, graceful in their movements, their furs shining with gloss resembling the richest velvet. These cats were the best in the show, and were specially considered by the judges to be a superb class. The average weight of each was about 16 and a half pounds. One of the prizes was for the “heaviest cat in the show,” and this was won by a specimen weighing a few ounces over eighteen pounds. This gentleman was so overcome with joy at the honor he had won that be gave himself up to amusement the whole day, glad to engage in a game with the first youngster that came along.

Few out of the 500 pussies showed bad tempers; the exceptions were among the black cats, which, for the most part, seemed discontented. Very different was the conduct of the long-haired Angora species, with their splendid coats white as snow, their pink eyes, and fiery appearance, forming one of the most interesting features. The crowd of children who almost, in these days, live at the palace make their choice without regard to the decision of the judges, and their favorites are at once exalted among themselves. The juvenile favorites yesterday were three kittens belonging to one family, of the Angora breed, strikingly beautiful, and a lady cat, the happy possessor of eight kittens about two days old, like their mother, perfectly white and quite undistinguishable from each other. Another specimen had greatness thrust upon him, because, poor fellow, he had the misfortune to be born without forelegs. This gentleman gets about after the fashion of the kangaroo, and his manner of getting over the ground is certainly curious if not graceful.

This unique spectacle is under distinguished auspices; as usual, a titled personage leads the list of patrons, which closes with the name of Charles Robert Darwin, the renowned philosopher and naturalist.

* * *

What a fastidious pussy! At a London cat show one pampered Thomas had to be breakfasted each morning on the wing of a chicken and a smelt fried in eggs and bread crumbs. - The Emporia Weekly News 3rd Dec 1875

At the Crystal Palace Cat Show last week, one of the prize cats had a smelt fried in bread crumbs, with the leg of a chicken to follow, another a mutton chop every day, but fried fish seemed to be the favorite dish. - The Vancouver Independent, 23rd December 1876

They have recently had the seventh annual show in the Crystal Palace, London. The highest priced cat was valued by its owner at $50,000, but it didn’t get first prize. “Tommy Dodd,” aged nine years, valued at $500 was the winner. There were over five hundred cats exhibited. - The Tennessean, 31st October, 1875

FIVE-HUNDRED DOLLAR CAT. Berwickshire News and General Advertiser, 8th February 1876
"Yes sir, - a five-hundred dollar cat," said Deacon Green yesterday to three little chaps who were walking with him. "Lately, at the Sydenham Palace, near London, was held a Cat Show, where over four hundred were exhibited. The prize cat won a premium of £5 - twenty-five dollars. He's a splendid fellow, named 'Tommy Dodd' - nine years old, and considered worth £100, or five hundred dollars. The heaviest specimen in the show weighed a few ounces over eighteen pounds. There's a cat for you, young gentlemen!" Jack-in-the Pulpit," St Nicholas for February.

1875 BIRMINGHAM CAT SHOW

THE BIRMINGHAM CATTLE, POULTRY, AND DOG SHOWS. Yorkshire Post and Leeds Intelligencer, 13th November 1875
These exhibitions, which open on the 27th lost., bid fair to be unusually interesting and successful. [. . .] The “Grand national cat show” will be held for the third time in conjunction with the cattle and dog shows. Entries close on Wednesday next.

THE CAT SHOW. Birmingham Daily Post, 29th November 1875
In consequence of the promoters of this show having been unable this year to obtain the space of land at the Old Wharf which they required, the building in which the Cat Show is held has had to be somewhat curtailed in its proportions. The result has been that over sixty entries have had to be refused from want of accommodation. Still there is a large and fairly meritorious show of the feline tribe. The exhibits this year number 350, as compared with 381 last year. They are shown, as usual, in a wooden structure, erected at Broad Street corner, by Mr. Street, of Bristol Street, who has paid all due regard to efficient ventilation in carrying out the work. The arrangement of the cages is very similar to that of former years. Mr. Gordon Stables, M.D.. R.N., and Mr. P.H. Jones, the judges, commenced their labours on Saturday morning, and in several of the classes they experienced considerable difficulty in coming to a decision, the merit being so uniformly great.

The short-haired tortoiseshell-and-white he cats are a very fine show, the first prize going to Mr. J. E. Hinks, with a fine cat twenty months old. Mr. John Hurry gains second honours with his “Totty" and Mr. J. Newland comes in third with a well-developed and handsome cat only twelve months old.
Short-haired brown tabby, or brown, tabby and white he cats: 1, Mr. J.H. Dean;- 2, Mrs. J. DDryhurst; 3, Mrs. Parrott. This is also a class or much merit.
There is a short show of short-haired blue or silver tabby he cats, Master F. George taking first prize, and second and third prizes being withheld.
Short-haired red tabby, or red tabby and white he cats: 1, Mrs. Thomas; 2, Mr. E. H. Warren ; 3, Mr. A. Sharp.
Short-haired spotted tabby he cats: 1, Mr. J. Beggs; 2, Miss C. Harrison; 3, Mr.W. Burton.
Short-haired black he cats 1, Mr. N. E1am; 2, Mrs. Shuckhurd; 3, Mr. J> Patinski.
Short-haired black-and-white he cats: 1, Mr J.N. Butt; 2, Mr. W.W. Walker; 3, Mrs. T. Silver.
Short-haired whit he cats: 1, Mr. W. Hicks; 2. Mr. J. D. Harvey; 3, Mrs. Bott.
Any other variety of colour or singular form: 1, Mrs. Dixey; 2, Mrs, Whittle; 3, Mr. P.Williams.
Short-haired tortoiseshell she cats: 1, Mr. H. Lee; 2, Miss A. M. Emery; 3, Mr. B Bailey.
Short-haired tortoiseshell-and- white she cats: 1, Mr. C. Greaves; 2, Mr. HI. Feavour ; 3, Mr. Dodson. This is a remarkably good class.
Short- haired tortoiseshell and tabby she cats: 1, Mr. J. Sammerton ; 2. Miss Polly Dixey ; 3, Mr. Scarman.
Short- haired brown tabby or brown tabby-and-white she cats : 1, Mr. J. D. Tustin ; 2, Mr. J. Edwards; 3, Mr. Schweiss.
Short-haired blue or silver tabby she cats: 1, Mrs. Gein; 2nd and 3rd prizes withheld.
Short-haired spotted tabby she cats: 1, Mr. J.B. Tustin; 2, Miss M. Moore; 3, Mr. E.C. Browne.
Short-haired black-and white she cats: 1, Mrs. E. Longmore; 2, Mrs. Grimshaw; 3, Mrs. E. Longmore.
Short-haired black she cats: 1, Miss Pemberton ; 2, Mr. T. Poultney; 3, Mr. J. Payne.
Short-haired white she cats: 1, Mr. A. Mackness ; 2, Mr . R. Pagett ; 3, Mr. A. Townsend.
Any Other variety of colour or form: 1, Mr. Carpenter ; 2, Mrs. Grey; 3, Mrs. WhIttle.
Two short-haired kittens under six months old: 1, Mr. R. Pagett; 2, Miss E. Woodwaird, 3, Miss E. Andrews.
Long-haired pure white he cats: 1, Miss A. E. Bryant; 2, Mrs. Cleverly.
Long-haired black he cats: 1, Mr. J.S. Pocock ; 2, Mr. J. Bristow.
Long-haired tabby he cats: 1. Mrs. T. Weatherall; whilst Mrs. H. C. Organ’s and Mr. J. BrIstow's exhibits are bracketed equal for second place.
Any other variety of colour long-haired he eats: 1, Miss M. Boville; 2, Mr. J. Bristow; 3, Miss Elmhurst.
Long-haired pure white she cats: 1, Mr. H. M. Maynard; 2, Miss G. Sprague; 3, Miss A.E. Bryant.
Long-haired tabby she cats: 1, Miss M. Weatherall; 2, Miss E. Hanbury; 3, Miss S. A. Sills.
Any other variety of colour long-haired she cats: 1, Mr. Winkett; 2, Miss Sprague; 3, Mrs. Hitchman.
Two long-haired kittens under six months old: 1, Miss N. B. Sprague; 2, Mrs. Organ; 3 Mr .T. Weightman.
Short-haired black or black-and-white gelded cats: 1, Miss O. Senior; 2, Mr .C.A. Shorthouse; 3, Mr. W. Grew jun.
Short-haired all white gelded cats: 1, Mrs. J. W. Midton; 2,Mr. W. Giles; 3, Mrs. F. Fisher
Short-haired tabby any colour gelded cats: 1, Mr. C. Hewett; 2, Mr .C. A. Shorthouse; 3, Mr. Nichols.
Short-haired unusual colour gelded cats: 1, Mr. D. Moore ; 2, Mrs. Scarman.
Long-haired black or black-and-white gelded cats: 1, Mr .T. Weightman.
Long-haired all white gelded cats: 1, Mr .T. Weightman; 2, Miss C. Williams.
Long-haired tabby any colour gelded cats: 1, Miss Sprague; 2, Mr. J. Baker; 3,Mr. Schweiss.
Long-haired unusual colour gelded cats: 1, Master H.E. Vernon.
Working Men’s Classes:
Black-and-white he cat: Mrs. Tilley.
Tabby-and-white he cat: Mr. T. Haynes.
White she cat: Mr. J. Cottrill.
Short-haired black cat: Bronze medal, Mrs. J. Smith.
Litter of short-haired kittens, any colour: Bronze medal, Mr. T. Payne.
Heaviest short-haired gelded cat, belonging to a working man: 1, Mr.H. Lee (17 and one half lbs), 2, Mrs. J. Smith ; 3, Mrs. J. E. Bond.
The visitors on Saturday were not very numerous, but, doubtless, the show will prove attractive to many before it closes on Thursday next.

THE CAT SHOW. Wolverhampton Express and Star, 30th November 1875
The Cat Show this year is held in the same locality as on the last occasion, namely, at Broad-street, and the arrangements for the convenience of the public aNd the housing of the pets are of the same efficient satisfactory character as formerly. The cats are arranged in cages up and down the show room, and are classified for ready reference to the catalogue. In each cage there is warm cushion on which the cat may recline at his or her ease, meat and milk are provided, and everything is arranged for the comfort and convenience of the animals. Those who visited the show on the last occasion will notice that, compared with the present exhibition, there has been a falling off in the number of entries. This fact, however, does not in the least detract from the value of the exhibition, but rather otherwise, as there is a very decided improvement in the quality of the competing cats. Last year there were 340 entries; this year only 306 are entered. Dr. Gordon Stables and Mr. P. H. Jones, who are the judges, entertain a very high opinion of the merit of the exhibition. Not only in their view is it as superior to the show of last year as that was to its predecessor" but they regarded it as of the best cat shows ever held in the country. The reason is not far to seek. Some of the most successful winners at the Crystal Palace are here, and ladies and gentlemen from all parts of the country have entered their feline pets. A prize was offered for the best cat in the show, and it was awarded to Mr. H.M. Maynard, of Ryde, Isle of Wight. This cat (203 in the catalogue) is a beautiful long-haired white she-cat of remarkable beauty. The hair is as soft as gossamer, and altogether it is about as fine a specimen of the class as could be well imagined. Class 13, short-haired tortoiseshell and white she-cats have been specially singled out by the judges for commendation. There are six altogether, to three of which prizes are awarded, and the others are commended, highly commended, and very highly commended, and they are almost perfect specimens of their class, and have evidently been reared with great care. The following local exhibitors took prizes:-
Short-haired tabby he-cats. – First prize £1 4s., Mr John Heggs, Hednesford.
Short-haired black and white he-cats. – Second, 15s., Mr. W.W. Walker, Wolverhampton.
Short-haired tortoiseshell and white she-cats. – Second prize, 15s., Mr. Harry Beavour, Old Hill.
Short-haired brown tabby or brown tabby and white she-cats. – First prize, £1 5s., Mr. J. D. Tustin, Wolverhampton; second, 15s., Mr. J. Edwards, Birmingham; highly commended, Mrs. Hobbs, Wolverhampton.
Short-haired spotted tabby she-cats. – First prize, £1 5s., Mr. J. D. Tustin, Wolverhampton.
For the two best short-haired kittens under six months old. – Highly commended, Mr. W. Shaw, Penkridge.
Any other variety of colour long-haired she-cats. – First prize, £1 5s., Mr. Winkett, Oldbury.
Short-haired tabby, any colour, cats. – Very highly commended, Master G. H. Morris, Oldbury; commended, Mrs. Jones, Wednesbury.

[1875 BIRMINGHAM SHOW] A CAT SHOW IN COURT Sydenham Times, 21st November 1876
At the Lambeth Police Court, Robert Couldry, of Lower Norwood, appeared to a summons tor detaining a prize cat, alleged to be the property of Alfred Mackness. Mr. Bilton appeared for the defendant. According to the evidence, it appeared that in November, 1875, a cat show was held at Birmingham, at which both complainant and defendant exhibited white she cats. For the cat exhibited by the defendant he was “highly commended” but the complainant, for his cat, obtained a prize of 25s. The prize cat, after being brought to Norwood, disappeared, and from enquiries made it was believed the defendant had it in his possession. The cat was valued at £15. Complainant afterwards went to the cat shows at the Alexandra Palace and Crystal Palace, and there saw what he believed to be his white cat. At the latter show it was entered as the property of a Miss Johns, and, although white, was described as “Charcoal” by name. Defendant, when afterwards spoken to, said he had had the cat for two years at the Crystal Palace, where he was employed. He had since refused give it up and hence the present proceeding. The complainant denied that his cat was lost in transit from Birmingham to London, and could swear to his animal out of dozens. It was remarkable for the blue colour of its eyes. For the defence it was urged by Mr. Bilton that the cat exhibited at the Crystal Palace was the property of the defendant, and the one that was “highly commended” at Birmingham. To bear out his line of defence he added that he would have a number of cats brought before the Court, and ask complainant to see if he could identify the one he claimed. The magistrate intimated his willingness to allow such a proceeding, and accordingly a box containing three white she cats, and two baskets, each containing another cat of somewhat similar colour, were brought in. The cats, one by one, were taken out and examined by the complainant, who declared neither was the “prize’' cat he claimed. He carefully examined the colour of the eyes of the animals, as did also his witnesses, and a deal of amusement was caused in court by the proceeding. One witness declared that none of the feline tribe present was the one belonging to the complainant, and entered in the “catalogue” at the Birmingham Show. Some witnesses believed that one of the cats in the box was the property of complainant. Defendant was sworn, and declared that the cat he exhibited at Birmingham, and which was “highly commended,” was his own, and the same that was in the show at the Crystal Palace. He had been for a short time in the habit of breeding, buying, and selling cats. The magistrate, after hearing the evidence for the defence, said the summons would be dismissed. The parties then left the court, and outside some persons set up a loud chorus of cat-calls.

THE CAT SHOW. Forest of Dean Examiner, 3rd December 1875
The third "Birmingham and National Cat Show" was opened on Saturday at the temporary building erected at Broad Street Corner. There were 300 entries comprising 350 cats and kittens, sent from London, Gloucester, Northampton, and almost all parts of the country. Many of the "midnight minstrels" have already gained prizes at the Crystal Palace, Glasgow, Exeter. and other cat shows. Judges of cats award the palm to the tabbies, and white and tortoiseshell she cats. The exhibition of brown tabbies, according to authorities on cats, ranked next in point of superiority. The prettiest nod undoubtedly the most admired pets were, however, those embracing the long-haired classes. Though penned up, the pussies seemed happy, the loss of freedom being compensated for by extra good food and the admiration of visitors – the elite having in addition silk and velvet cushions to loll upon. Both morning and afternoon there was a good attendance of visitors. The show remained open till Thursday.

THE NATIONAL CAT SHOW. Warwick and Warwickshire Advertiser, 4th December 1875
The cat show this year was held in the same locality as on the last occasion, namely, at Broad-street, Birmingham. Last year there were 340 entries; this year 306 only were entered. Dr Gordon Stables and Mr P.H. Jones, who were the judges, expressed a very high opinion of the merit of the exhibition. Not only in their view was it superior to the show of last year as that was to its predecessor, but they regarded it as one of the best cat shows ever held in the country. The reason is not far to seek. Some of the most successful prize winners at the Crystal Palace were here, and ladies and gentlemen from all parts of the country entered their feline pets. The tortoiseshell and tabby he-cats, which are now so great a rarity, were unrepresented in the show, but with this exception almost every class was to be found.

THE BIRMINGHAM CATTLE, POULTRY, DOG, AND CAT SHOW. Worcestershire Chronicle, 4th December 1875
The twenty-seventh annual exhibition of cattle, sheep, pigs, poultry, agricultural implements, etc, opened at Bingley Hall on Saturday ; but, as usual the first day, when the judges have their work to do and other arrangements have to be completed, the charge for admission was made practically prohibitive [. . .]
Cats. —The tortoiseshell and tabby “tom" cats, which are now so great a rarity, were unrepresented, but with this exception almost every class was to be found. A prize was offered for the best cat in the show, and it was awarded to Mr. H. M. Maynard, Ryde, Isle of Wight. This cat is a beautiful long-haired white she-cat of remarkable beauty. The hair is as soft as gossamer, and altogether it is about as fine a specimen of the class as could be well imagined. The first prize for the best pair of kittens was awarded to Miss Nelly Butler Sprague, of Evesham, who possesses a pair beautiful, playful little animals. Shorthaired tortoiseshell and white she-cats were specially singled out by the judges for commendation; there were six entries altogether, to three of which prizes were awarded, and the others were commended, highly commended, and very highly commended. They are almost perfect specimens of their class, and have evidently been reared with great care. The best specimens in the show exhibited, came from Master H. E. Vernon (Droitwich), Miss Sprague (Evesham), and others. We extract the following from the prize list:

Short-haired tortoiseshell and white he-cats—Commended, Mr. J. W. Butler, Evesham.
Short-haired tortoiseshell and tabby she-cats - First prize, £l 5s, Mr. John Summerton, Worcester.
Long-haired pure white she-cats—Second prize, 15s., Miss G. Sprague, Evesham.
Long-haired tabby, any colour cats First prize, £1 5s., Miss Sprague, Evesham.
Long-haired, unusual colour cats—First prize, £1 5s, Master Hubert E. Vernon. Droitwich.
Any other variety colour or form, such as Manx, or six-clawed short-haired she-cats—Commended, Miss G. Spragne, Evesham.
For the two best shorthaired kittens, under six months old —Very highly commended, Miss Jane Ogram, Evesham.

1875 SWINDON CAT SHOW

POULTRY, PIGEON, DOG AND CAT SHOW. Swindon Advertiser and North Wilts Chronicle, 29th November 1875
The show of poultry, pigeons, cage birds, rabbits, cats, and dogs, at Swindon, on Friday next, an affair of extraordinary magnitude. Visitors will doubtless be brought together from all parts of the country to witness the show. The entries have assured its success, amounting to the following number: Poultry 442; pigeons, 280; cage birds, 83 ; rabbits, 61 ; cats, 28 ; dogs, 255. Total, 1,149. Turner's pens will be used.

CAT SHOW. Swindon Advertiser and North Wilts Chronicle, 6th December 1875
The cat show was a decided improvement on last year, local exhibitors, as will be seen from the subjoined list of awards, taking most of the prizes.
Class 52.—Short-haired.—1st, (10s), S. Hickman, Elm Grove, 2nd. (5s), Mr J. Kent, Lower Wanborough. Swindon; 3rd (a card), Mr T. Neal, Eastcott Hill. Swindon ; very highly commended. Major Prower, Purton House ; highly commended, Mr J. Farmer, Wroughton ; Mr M. Everett, Aldbourne, Hungerford; Mr F Gray, Purton; commended Miss Hunt, Greyhound Inn, New Swindon; Miss Fouracre, 20, Lansdown Road, Swindon ; Mr H. Simpkins, Lyneham, Chippenham ; Mr R. Bradford, Midge Hall, Wootton Basset t.
Class 53. - Long-haired.—1st, (10s), Mr W. Dean, Marlow House, New Swindon; 2nd, (5s), Mr J. Rogers, 13, Regent Street, New Swindon; 3rd, (a card). Miss A. S. Whitman, Gorse Hill, Swindon; commended. G. R. Brett, 40, Bridge Street, New Swindon; Mr J. Fernie, Stratton St. Margaret.

1875 OTHER REGIONAL CAT SHOWS

JERSEY POULTRY AND CAT SHOW. Jersey Independent and Daily Telegraph, 21st January 1875
Wednesday the 8th annual exhibition under the auspices of the Jersey Poultry and Dog Society, was held in the Vegetable Market, Beresford-street, and will continue to-morrow. The show yard, which has the advantage of being under good cover, had three rows of pens down the centre of the building and also ranged against the walls. [. . .] Dogs would certainty have proved an attractive feature, specially to male visitors to the show. A very poor substitute is found in the feline tribe so far as the number or variety exhibited goes.

[. . .] In nearly every class the competition was strong, the rabbits and cats alone make indifferent show. The latter appear less at home than any of their neighbours for public inspection.

KENDAL: THE POULTRY, DOG, AND CAT SHOW. Kendal Mercury, 23rd January 1875
We have been requested remind our readers who purpose making entries for the forthcoming show at Kendal, to do so at once, as to-day (Saturday) is the last on which they can be received, excepting perhaps under very unusual circumstances. We are told that the show, as far as regards dogs, promises be advance of last year, and several cats have been entered including several celebrities of the feline world. Kendalians, especially the fairer [female] portion of them, will no doubt be as anxious to see a 1st prize pussy cat” as they once wore to see a 1st prize dog.

[HULL CAT SHOW] The Hour, 19th March 1875
The first Pigeon, Rabbit, and Cat Show ever held in Hull was opened here to-day. There are 644 entries, and the show promises to be a great success. Many of the specimens have been sent from London, including the cat "Lion,"a winner of numerous prizes.

HULL PIGEON, RABBIT, AND CAT SHOW DINNER. Hull Packet, 16th April 1875
The first annual dinner in connection with a show of pigeons, rabbits, and cats, held in Hull, took place last evening, at the Britannia Hotel, Mytongate. [. . .]These shows, as [the Chairman] understood them, were not merely to encourage competition and to improve the breed of the animals exhibited, but also to foster kind treatment of such things.

MORPETH POULTRY, PIGEON, AND CAT SHOW. Blyth News, 17th April 1875
The first annual exhibition of this Show took place on Saturday last in the Corn Exchange, town Hall, Morpeth. Cats–a new feature for such exhibitions in this locality –were as regards numbers a comparative failure, the masters or mistresses of only nine tabbies having been willing to lend them out for a day's public inspection. It was very evident, also, that not one of them belonged to the genuine traditional "old maid" for not one of them was provided with a bit of mat or cushion to repose on.

WANSBECK POULTRY, PIGEON, AND CAT SHOW. Morpeth Herald, 17th April 1875
The first exhibition was held in the Corn Exchange, at Morpeth, on Saturday last, which was in every point of view, a most complete success, and speaking well for the future of the society. The total number of entries was 168, including 102 pens of poultry, of pigeons and of cats - the latter being something of a novelty in the town, and one which, in time, might turn out not the least interesting part of the programme. [. . .] The cats, were generally good, and it was rather surprising how well the "Toms" and "Tabbies" passed through the ordeals of judgment and the public gaze. Mr. F. E. Schofield, Morpeth, discharged the duties of judge in a most painstaking manner, with the assistance of a well-known veteran such matters, the following being a list of the awards:-

Cats, 1 F. R. Nichol, Morpeth ; 2 Margaret Nichol, Morpeth; 3 Thomas Marshall; 10 entries.

KETTERING “THE FEAST” (SHOW, Inc. CAT SHOW). Northampton Mercury, 10rh July 1875
The cat show was small, and those exhibited not worthy of any special mention. The winner in class 4S, any other variety, was a beautifully-marked tabby, certainly the best in the show. The second prize was also a good cat, but not so clearly marked.

Class 47. Long hair, any variety, 1st, Capt. T. Wetherall; 2nd Mr. Mark Robins, Chapel Brampton, Northampton. Highly commended, Mr. B. Mills, Kettering. Commended, Mrs. Clarke, Huntingdon.
Class 48.—Any other variety, 1st, Miss Fanny Rains, Kettering, 2nd, Mr. Frank Cotes, Northampton. Commended, Mr. Frank Cotes.

PICKERING HORTICULTURAL, POULTRY, AND DOG SHOW. York Herald, 23rd July 1875
The Pickering and District Floral, Horticultural Poultry, Bird, and Dog Show Society, after being dormant for several years, has been resuscitated, and held its first annual show yesterday, in the Castle Grounds, Pickering. [. . .] The cat show was small, but there were some fine specimens of "pussy," and they appeared to be an object of special admiration. {Cat prizes:]
British marked cat, Mrs Mitchelson; second, J : Hebden. Pickering.
Best foreign. T M Kendall, Esq, Pickering ; second, J Smith. Pickering.

PADDOCK (HUDDERSFIELD) SHOW. Yorkshire Post and Leeds Intelligencer, 7th August 1875
Paddock Horse, Pig, Poultry, Pigeon. Rabbit, Dog, And Cat Show, will be held To-Day (Saturday), August 7th 1875. Joseph Taylor, Hon. Sec. 50 Steps House, Brierley Wood, Huddersfield.

WHITWICK HORTICULTURAL, INDUSTRIAL, CANINE, AND POULTRY SOCIETY. Leicester Chronicle, 7th August 1875
The fifth annual exhibition of the Whitwick Horticultural and Industrial Society took place on Monday, in a field belonging to Mr. Hill, adjoining Silver street.
The cat show, as might be expected, excited great interest, but the nine “exhibits" preferred their cushions to the popular favour; the result being that those who had a full view of the feline pets were, comparatively speaking, "few and far between." But one tortoise specimen put in an appearance, but this entry was considered of such high merit that it was awarded the first prize. Of tabbies, there were four claimants for the favour of the judge; and the remainder were disposed of in the "any other colour" and "heaviest cat” classes. In this display, the most successful "entry" was that of Mr. Hulse, of Nottingham, which carried off the first prize as the heaviest specimen, and the second for the best cat of any other colour."

HINCKLEY. EXHIBITION OF BIRDS, RABBITS, AND CATS. Leicester Journal, 10th September 1875
The- announcement of a bird, rabbit, and cat show is something new and interesting to inhabitants of this town, and judging from the schedule of prizes, those outside the neighbourhood will be amused with this novel exhibition, which to take place during the month. [. . .]In rabbits and cats the weight well colour is means by which prizes win gained. There is a Local of entries stipulating that exhibitors must reside within a distance of five miles of Hinckley. Mr. Benson, of Derby, is announced to be the judge.