Behind the Scenes at Our Aurora TICA Cat Show Weekend

One of the questions I'm asked most often is, "Why do you spend your weekends taking your cats to shows?"

After spending a weekend at the Aurora TICA Cat Show, I can honestly say that every show teaches me something new.

While ribbons are always exciting, the greatest rewards are the education, friendships, and experience that help me become a better breeder.

Meet Gandolf

This show belonged to Gandolf, one of our young Maine Coons.

As a Longhair Kitten, Gandolf competed in six judging rings on Saturday and six more on Sunday. Each judge evaluated him independently according to the TICA Maine Coon breed standard. One thing became clear very quickly...

Gandolf absolutely loved the experience. He confidently explored each judging ring, played with the judges' toys, remained calm during examination, and showed the wonderful temperament we work so hard to produce at Aspen Maine Coons. As a breeder, that made me just as proud as any ribbon ever could.

Every Judge Brings a Different Perspective

One of the most educational parts of showing is learning how different judges evaluate the same cat.

Gandolf's beautiful red-silver chinchilla coloring sparked a lot of conversation throughout the weekend. Because it's an uncommon and developing color within the breed, it generated thoughtful discussion among judges and experienced breeders. That is one of the reasons I attend cat shows. Every opinion, every conversation, and every evaluation helps me continue learning about the breed I love.

A Successful Weekend

Gandolf earned First in his Class and First in his Division throughout the weekend, giving us valuable experience in the show ring while continuing to build his TICA record as a kitten. Although kittens compete differently than adults, every show provides important experience for both the cat and the breeder. Watching Gandolf confidently move through twelve judging rings was a wonderful reminder that temperament is every bit as important as appearance.

The Best Part Was the People

Cat shows aren't just about the cats. They're about the community.

I had the opportunity to meet fellow breeders from around the country, talk with experienced judges, exchange ideas, and make new friendships within the Maine Coon community.

One of the highlights of the weekend was getting to see one of our Aspen Maine Coons families, who came to the show just to visit us. There is nothing more rewarding than catching up with families after they bring one of our kittens home. Watching those lifelong relationships grow is one of my favorite parts of being a breeder.

These relationships are incredibly valuable because responsible breeders are always learning from one another, and our kitten families become an important part of the Aspen Maine Coons community. Whether they're attending a cat show, sharing photos as their kittens grow, or simply checking in months or years later, those connections mean the world to me.

Two Very Special New Arrivals

The weekend became even more exciting because Aspen Maine Coons welcomed two beautiful new additions to our breeding program.

Please welcome:

Birdy – a stunning silver classic tabby with white.

Maple – a beautiful, classic black tabby.

One of my favorite moments was watching them meet Gandolf. They accepted him almost immediately, and it was wonderful to see everyone settling in together.

I can't wait to introduce you to both of these girls in future blog posts.

Looking Ahead

Our next adventure is just around the corner!

Aspen Maine Coons will be attending Cat Fest in Colorado Springs on July 25, and we're looking forward to another opportunity to learn, meet fellow cat lovers, and continue representing this incredible breed.

If you're planning to attend, please stop by and say hello. We'd love to meet you, answer your questions, and introduce you to our Maine Coons.

Final Thoughts

Every cat show reminds me why I chose this journey. It's not simply about titles or trophies.

It's about learning. It's about preserving the Maine Coon breed. It's about meeting wonderful people who share the same passion. And most importantly, it's about continuing to improve so every Aspen Maine Coons kitten has the very best start in life.

Thank you for following our journey and for welcoming Aspen Maine Coons into your home, one story at a time. 🐾