The feline elite arrives in Rijeka – catwalk, world champions and best in show

by croatiaweek
February 23, 2026
in Entertainment

(Photo: Pet Almighty Photography by Gordana Popović)

Kantrida in the spirit of whiskers and glamour: More than one hundred feline beauties in one place

An attractive WCF International Cat Show will take place on 28 February and 1 March 2026, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., at the Kantrida Athletics Hall in Rijeka.

The popularity of cats continues to grow year after year, with more and more people recognising them as ideal companions thanks to their affectionate nature, personality and adaptability to modern lifestyles.

Rijeka will once again become a hub of the feline world and a meeting point for breeders, exhibitors and cat lovers from Croatia and abroad.

The exhibition will be open to visitors on both Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. The event is organised by the Felis Croatia Cat Club, a full member of the World Cat Federation (WCF).

(Photo: Pet Almighty Photography by Gordana Popović)

More than one hundred cats of various breeds will participate, accompanied by exhibitors from several European countries. A strong visitor turnout is expected, as in previous years, and residents of Rijeka will have the opportunity to receive expert advice from veterinarians and breeders in one place on breeding, nutrition and pet care.

Numerous competitions will take place over the two days, including awards for the best adult cat, best junior, best kitten and best neuter.

(Photo: Pet Almighty Photography by Gordana Popović)

On Saturday at around 3 p.m., visitors can enjoy a special highlight, a cat fashion show by designer Gordana Radić, also a cat breeder, where four-legged models will shine on the runway. Following the show, at around 4 p.m., the ceremonial Best in Show programme will begin, selecting the most beautiful among the nominated cats; this will also take place on Sunday at the same time.

(Photo: Pet Almighty Photography by Gordana Popović)

Visitors will also have the opportunity to meet a three-time world champion in the veteran category, a Maine Coon from Rijeka named Zoki, as well as many other impressive breeds such as the Maine Coon, Norwegian Forest Cat, Abyssinian, Bengal and Siberian cats, Ocicat, Persian, Devon Rex, Ragdoll, British Shorthair and the hairless Sphynx.

(Photo: Pet Almighty Photography by Gordana Popović)

A Thai cat will greet visitors on Sunday, while special attention will also be drawn by Rijeka’s most famous cat, Miško, who will visit his four-legged friends on Saturday between 2 p.m. and 5 p.m. Sales stands offering cat food and accessories will also be available at the exhibition.

Before acquiring a cat, it is important to learn about the characteristics of each breed, as feline temperament should match the owner’s lifestyle.

(Photo: Pet Almighty Photography by Gordana Popović)

Visitors will be able to discuss this and many other topics with breeders and representatives of Kitten Safe House, Croatia’s first cat shelter, and adopted domestic cats will also take part in the exhibition.

Tickets priced at €6 for adults and €3 for children can be purchased via the Entrio system or at the ticket desk at the venue entrance.