The last days of spring in the Croatian metropolis will be marked by the elegance, grace, and prestige of the feline world. Zagreb is preparing to host one of the most anticipated events for all cat lovers – the spectacular international exhibition WCF Cat Olimpia Show 2025. This premier event, which will take place on May 31st and June 1st, 2025, at the popular Family mall, will attract the elite of the cat world from as many as thirty countries.

An impressive number of around one thousand cats are expected to attend, representing a wide range of breeds, as well as charming domestic cats. This event is not only an opportunity to admire the beauty of these fascinating animals but also a platform to celebrate their excellence, diversity, and the dedication of breeders to maintaining breed standards. Organization under the umbrella of the World Cat Federation (WCF) guarantees the highest standards and international recognition.

Prestige under the auspices of the World Cat Federation (WCF)

The World Cat Federation, headquartered in Germany, is one of the largest and most influential international organizations bringing together cat fancier clubs worldwide. Their mission includes pedigree registration, setting and maintaining standards for individual breeds, educating and licensing international judges, and promoting responsible cat ownership and breeding. Exhibitions under the patronage of the WCF are known for strict rules, transparent judging, and a high level of organization. Participating in a WCF exhibition, especially the Olimpia Show, represents a significant achievement for any breeder and owner of a pedigreed cat.

What makes the WCF Cat Olimpia Show special?

What sets the WCF Cat Olimpia Show apart from other international exhibitions is the unique scoring system that attracts the most ambitious exhibitors. At this prestigious competition, the points cats earn for the BestCat title, awarded by an expert international jury, are tripled. This rare opportunity makes the Zagreb Olimpia Show a key event for all those wishing to improve their cat's rank on the world's best list (WCF Best Cat ranking). The fight for triple points guarantees extremely strong competition and the presence of some of the most beautiful and most awarded cats of today.

The history of the WCF Olimpia Show dates back to 2012, when the first such event was held in Italy. Since then, with a short break during the pandemic years, this traveling spectacle enriches the cat event calendar in a different European country each year, bringing the spirit of Olympism and top-level competition to the world of felinology.

A World of Breeds and Beauty: Who Competes?

Visitors to Family mall will have the opportunity to see the incredible diversity of the cat world. Numerous recognized breeds will be presented at the exhibition, each with its unique characteristics, temperament, and history. The participation of popular long-haired beauties is expected, such as the majestic Maine Coons, known as "gentle giants," elegant Persian cats with luxurious fur and calm character, and lovely Ragdoll cats known for their relaxed nature.

Short-haired breeds will be no less interesting. We will be able to admire British Shorthairs with their plush coats and round eyes, exotic Bengal cats whose leopard pattern reminds of wild ancestors, elegant Siamese cats recognizable by their blue eyes and contrasting points, and unique Sphynx cats without fur that attract attention with their unusual appearance. Of course, representatives of many other breeds are also expected, from Siberian cats resistant to cold to Oriental Shorthairs with slender bodies.

Special attention will also be paid to domestic cats without pedigrees. They compete in a separate category, where judges evaluate their beauty, grooming, character, and overall impression, thus celebrating the charm and uniqueness of every cat, regardless of origin.

Judging and Categories: The Path to the Title

Judging cats at WCF exhibitions is a complex process carried out by licensed international judges. Each pedigreed cat is evaluated according to its breed standard, which details the ideal physical characteristics (shape of head, eyes, ears, body, tail, quality and color of fur) and desirable temperament. Cats compete within their breed, color, sex, and age group (kittens 3-6 months, juniors 6-10 months, adults over 10 months) and class (e.g., Open Class, Champion, International Champion, Grand International Champion, etc.).

In addition to standard judging by breed, WCF exhibitions often include special competitions known as WCF Rings. There are three main rings: WCF Adult Ring (for adult cats), WCF Kitten/Junior Ring (for kittens and young cats), and WCF Neuter Ring (for neutered/spayed cats). In the rings, the judge selects the top 10 cats regardless of breed, awarding them places from first to tenth, which adds to the excitement of the competition.

The highlight of the exhibition is certainly the Best in Show (BIS) selection, where the best cats from different categories (longhair, semi-longhair, shorthair, Siamese/Oriental, and house cats) compete for the most prestigious titles of the day, such as the Most Beautiful Cat of the Exhibition.

Education and Socializing at the Heart of the Event

The WCF Cat Olimpia Show is not just a competition; it is also a meeting place for learning and sharing experiences. The organizers are preparing a rich accompanying program with educational content intended for both exhibitors and visitors. Topics will cover proper cat care, the importance of a balanced diet, the basics of cat genetics and responsible breeding, disease prevention, and the importance of regular veterinary check-ups. This is an excellent opportunity for all current and future cat owners to learn something new and get advice from experts and experienced breeders.

The event also strengthens ties within the international felinological community, providing a platform for socializing among breeders, judges, and cat lovers from all over the world. The exchange of knowledge and experience is crucial for the further development of breeds and the promotion of cat welfare.

Zagreb as Host: A City Tailored for Cat Lovers

The Croatian metropolis, with its rich history, cultural offerings, and hospitable residents, is an ideal host for such a large international event. Zagreb is known as a city where cats are common and beloved pets, so the great interest from the local audience is not surprising. The location in Family mall, a modern shopping center with good transport links and ample space, ensures a pleasant experience for both exhibitors and their cats, as well as visitors.

Visitors from other cities and countries coming to the WCF Cat Olimpia Show have the opportunity to combine their love for cats with exploring Zagreb. The city offers numerous attractions, from the historic Upper Town with St. Mark's Square and the Stone Gate, through the picturesque Dolac market and the imposing Zagreb Cathedral, to numerous museums, galleries, and green oases like Maksimir Park. The diverse gastronomic scene will satisfy every taste.

Accommodation for Visitors and Exhibitors

For all those planning to visit Zagreb for the WCF Cat Olimpia Show, the city offers a wide range of accommodation options. From luxury hotels in the city center to more affordable hotels and hostels, Zagreb can cater to different budgets. Private apartments found via online platforms are particularly popular, offering flexibility and the comfort of home.

Given that the event takes place in Family mall, located in the southern part of the city (Novi Zagreb), visitors can look for accommodation nearby to facilitate access to the exhibition. However, thanks to well-organized public transport, staying in other parts of the city is also a practical option. For exhibitors coming with their cats, it is important to check if the chosen accommodation allows pets. An increasing number of hotels and apartments in Zagreb recognize the needs of guests with pets and offer "pet-friendly" options, but checking and booking in advance is recommended.

Undoubtedly, the WCF Cat Olimpia Show 2025 will be an unforgettable event for all cat lovers, providing a unique insight into the world of top-level felinology, beauty, and dedication to the preservation of these wonderful animals. For two days, Zagreb will become the world capital of cats, and Family mall the place where their elegance and diversity are celebrated.