04/11/2026
Cat Show FAQ:
Should I bring cash to the show? Yes - You will need cash or PayPal for admission; While most of the vendors are able to take credit / debit cards, you may also want cash for small purchases. There will be an ATM at the gate, but don’t rely on it working.
Where can I buy Tickets? Tickets are sold at the door. Adults $15, Seniors (60+) $10; Children (5-12) $8; Children 4 and under Free; Family of 4 (at least 2 children) $40; Support our rescue - Bring cat food and get $1 discount (limit 1 per entry);
Will there be cats to touch and pet? Some of the cats in the show may be available to pet, but Always ask permission first, and always sanitize between cats.
Are we allowed to bring our personal cat or dog (on a leash, in a stroller, or in a carrier)? No, only pre-registered cats are permitted in the show. Our association has rules requiring specific vaccinations, health checks, etc. that can not be investigated or enforced with unregistered cats. It is as much for the safety of your cat as it is for those competing.
What’s the best time to visit the show? We recommend planning to arrive at the show at least 2 hours prior to the end of the show. The show is open 9:30 - 4 each day. The morning judging session is 9:30 am - 12pm, the afternoon session is 1pm- 4pm; There is a one hour lunch break in judging between 12 - 1; There will be 8 show rings / judges each day. Each judge will evaluate all of the cats entered, and each will pick their top cats. Each judge hosts their own mini show, there is no overall best of the best in this show. So no matter what time you come, you will have the opportunity to see all of the cats. Plan to spend an hour or more at the show
Can I take pictures of the cats? Photography is permitted, but please ask permission first if using a flash or if your camera makes noise when taking a picture, as It may scare some cats.
How much does it cost to visit the show? Tickets are sold at the door. Adults $15, Seniors (60+) $10; Children (5-12) $8; 4 and under Free; Family of 4 (at least 2 children) $40; Support our rescue - Bring cat food and get $1 discount (limit 1 per entry); Parking at the fairgrounds is free - but expect it to be busy! Lots of events at the fairgrounds this weekend.
Will there be cat supplies and toys at the show? Yes! We have some magnificent vendors lined up for the show. There will be plenty of options for cat toys and furniture, as well as jewelry, clothes and art.
Will there be cats for sale / adoption? We will have a rescue organization at the show with available random bred cats / kittens. And some of our exhibitors may have purebred cats or kittens looking for their perfect home. You are welcome to spend some time talking with the breeders and learning more about your favorite breed, and perhaps making a connection for a future furbaby.
Will there be people food available? There are food trucks available outside around the fairgrounds, but nothing in the building. However, if you happen to be there after lunch you're welcome to join us for our annual cake celebration!
Anything else? HAVE FUN! Our exhibitors love to talk about their cats and most don't mind spending some time answering questions when they are not running between rings. Our judges also enjoy presenting the various breeds and talking about the history and characteristics of each, and will describe what they are looking for as they evaluate each cat. There will be 8 judging seasons going on at once, so find a judge you enjoy, and have a seat.
Want to know more? Check out our What is a cat Show information page here: https://www.tica.org/cat-lovers/what-s-a-cat-show
Show hours:
Saturday April 11, 2025 9 - 4:30
Sunday April 12, 2025 9:30 - 4
Location:
North Carolina State Fairgrounds
Dorton Arena (weird building, looks like a Pringles chip)
1025 Blue Ridge Road
Raleigh , 27607 United States
See this venue in Google Maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/QAEmj3pg1cPqvEVe8
Parking is Free
Admission: Tickets are sold at the door. Adults $15 Seniors (60+) $10; Children (5-12) $8; 4 and under Free; Family of 4 (at least 2 children) $40; Support our rescue - Bring cat food and get $1 discount (limit 1 per entry);
What Is A Cat Show? The International Cat Association is home to a steadily growing membership of people in the cat fancy world who share their love of cats and competitive cat shows. But cat shows aren’t just for diehard cat fans who have been grooming their feline friends for elite competitions ...
