Birch & Bramble at the June 2026 International Cat Show in Cainta

Some weekends remind us why we love being part of the cat community. On June 20–21, 2026, Birch & Bramble joined the International Cat Show by WCF–PFC at the Royal Canin Educational Hub in Cainta. It was a chance to watch judging up close, connect with fellow exhibitors, and celebrate the cats at the heart of our cattery journey.

For us, a show is more than a photograph with a rosette. It is an opportunity to keep learning, reflect on our goals, and appreciate the care that happens long before a cat reaches the judging table. Here are a few moments from that weekend, along with what these experiences mean to us as breeders and cat lovers.

A closer look at judging day

The judging table brings details into focus. Watching a cat stand, move, and respond to a teaser offers a different perspective from admiring a favourite photo at home. The atmosphere also gives exhibitors a chance to observe the process and listen carefully.

For new owners, it helps to understand what a show can—and cannot—tell you. Conformation judging considers a cat in relation to its breed standard. It does not replace veterinary examinations, appropriate health screening, or the everyday care that supports a cat throughout its life. We see participation as one part of a much bigger commitment.

What we take home from the ring

Every show gives us something to think about after the carriers are packed away. Our most useful takeaways are often practical:

• Observe with purpose. Look beyond a single feature and consider the whole cat, including balance, coat presentation, and overall condition.
• Listen and keep learning. Judges’ observations can prompt useful questions and further study of breed standards.
• Respect individuality. Cats respond differently to unfamiliar surroundings. Their comfort matters throughout the experience.
• Keep perspective. One day in the ring is a moment in a cat’s life, not the full story of its quality or the care behind it.

The care behind a show day

The public sees the ring, but preparation starts much earlier. Patient handling, regular grooming, and familiarity with a carrier are part of building a calmer experience. They also matter outside the show world, whether a cat is travelling to an event or visiting a veterinary clinic.

On a busy day, the small details deserve attention: a comfortable resting space, familiar bedding, access to water, and time away from activity. Preparation should support the cat rather than become a reason to push through signs of distress. Our priorities remain the same at home and at an event: thoughtful care and respect for the individual cat.

Pride without pressure

We love having photographs to remember these weekends. The rosette photo below captures that sense of pride beautifully, but our favourite part is the cat being held at the centre of it all. Behind every keepsake is an animal whose wellbeing comes first.

For fellow cattery owners, we hope these moments encourage curiosity and conversation. For fur parents and new cat owners, we hope they offer a glimpse of the learning and care behind the scenes. A responsible conversation about a cat should always extend beyond ribbons to its needs, history, and lifelong home.

Thank you to our cat-show community

Thank you to the judges, organisers, fellow exhibitors, and everyone who shared encouragement during the weekend. Events like this bring people together through a shared appreciation for cats, and we are grateful to be part of that community.

We return home with memories, questions to explore, and renewed motivation to keep improving. That is what makes these weekends meaningful to Birch & Bramble.

See more event moments: View the full Facebook album.

Stay connected: Find our website and social accounts through Birch & Bramble’s Linktree.