The Nor’east of Scotland Cat Club show on Saturday in Dundee turned out to be quite an eventful day for Cara and Alvie. Being our local show, just 20 minutes away, it was an exciting outing for us. Among the many participants, there was a remarkable total of 15 Russian Blues in attendance, adding to the lively and competitive atmosphere of the show. There were six adults, of whom Cara was one and five neuters. Alvie was one of four kittens.
Cara, with her beautiful Grand rosette & CertificateGrand Challenge Certificate
We were delighted when Cara was awarded her first Grand Challenge Certificate. Soon though, we were overjoyed when Alvie was awarded first place in her breed class and then went on to be honoured with Best of Breed. It was a proud moment for us to see her recognised among such a strong showing of Russian Blues. Adding to the excitement of the day, Alvie also achieved one of the newly introduced GCCF Kitten Challenge certificates.
Cara with her rosettes and certificatesThe new GCCF Kitten Certificate
Alvie didn’t stop there. She was subsequently awarded Best Section 4 Kitten, a testament to her outstanding qualities and charm. This accolade led her to the prestigious Best in Show kitten pens, where she was judged against the other six kitten section winners. The atmosphere was electric as expectations soared, each kitten vying for the ultimate recognition. Alvie displayed poise and elegance. She ultimately was runner up to a gorgeous 14 week old British Short Hair kitten from Section 3.
At the end of the show, we realised Alvie had, in fact, achieved a Red Card Day by winning every single class she was entered in. This remarkable feat left us beaming with pride as we packed up to head home. It wasn’t just a day of accolades; it was a day filled with joy, camaraderie, and a shared celebration of the beauty and grace these cats bring into our lives.
Arkaig, now affectionately called Laddie, holds the special title of being the first kitten we ever sold. He has since embarked on a grand adventure, settling furthest away from us in the charming countryside of Staffordshire, where he enjoys spending time with his older “brother” Saul, a black moggie, they are now the best of friends.
Laddie & Saul
Laddie can often be found napping in sun-dappled spots, or chilling in front of the fire during colder days, quite often together, forming such a special bond.
Laddie has also taken quickly to walking in a harness, exploring his expansive gardens with curiosity and confidence.
In addition to his adventures at home, Laddie has also stepped into the spotlight as a show cat. He has attended a couple of shows down south, where his elegance and charm have caught the eye of many admirers – even being awarded Best Section 4 Kitten at his first show! Much to his owners’ and breeders’ delight.
Arkaig sleeping through all the fuss!Rosette haulBest Section 4 Kitten
Judge critique shared with Mrs Janet William’s kind permission.
Achray, now known as Dexter, is the sweetest boy who is living his best life in the vibrant city of Edinburgh. He is adapting well to his new surroundings. His new parents adore him and cannot envisage life without him.
DexterTeaching Dad
With his gentle nature and eagerness to please, Dexter, affectionately known as Dex, is currently undergoing training with a clicker and harness. This method is proving to be effective in helping him learn new commands and navigate his environment confidently.
How long is his tail?
Two Elephants!
Dexter is a curious kitten and almost ended up in the attic during one of his explorations. His adventurous spirit keeps his new family on their toes, always ready to rescue him from his latest escapade.
First time outdoorsOutside please Mum!Gaining confidence
All kittens have gone off to their new homes where they are settling in. Each kitten, with its own unique personality, is quickly adapting and exploring new surroundings, making new friends, and finding cosy spots to nap in. As they grow, their bond with their new owners will undoubtedly deepen. We love receiving updates about our kittens, each message filled with tales of discovery and affection. It’s a delight to hear how they are thriving, from their curious escapades to the sweet moments of snuggling. These updates are a testament to the happiness they bring and the joy of seeing them grow into cherished members of their new families.
Belle & Bobby
First, let’s meet Achanalt and Ailsh, now known as Bobby and Belle, who have made their new home in the picturesque southwest of Scotland. These two have found the perfect playground to unleash their boundless energy. Bobby, with his adventurous spirit, loves to inspect every nook and cranny, even as far as the cornice tray (we won’t tell anyone that builders had to be called to rescue him!) Belle, more demure and graceful, often finds herself perched by the window, basking in the sun, observing the world outside and silently tutting at her brothers’ adventures. Both take an avid interest and are keen to help their owners when they are working from home!
Their new owners have fallen head over heels for their charming duo. Bobby’s playful pranks and Belle’s gentle purrs have become the highlight of their days. The siblings share a strong bond, often curled up together in their favourite spots, providing comfort and companionship to each other.
The first kitten we sold – Arkaig, was the very last to leave us.
Final cuddles with Arkaig
As he was going to be living way down south, we decided to take our Certifikats stall and enter both him and his sister Alvie in the Shropshire Cat Club Show. It was a fair distance but both were so good in the car and enjoyed their stay in the hotel the evening before the show.
Alvie exploring the hotel room
The show was a huge success, with Alvie being awarded first in her Russian Blue Female Kitten class and Arkaig first in the Male Russian Blue kitten class. He was then awarded Best of Breed over his sister and then to our complete surprise was awarded Overall Best Section 4 Kitten. Of course, both us and his new owner were completely overwhelmed by this – what an amazing start to his show career!
Arkaig chilling at the showBest Section 4 KittenRosette haulArkaig sleeping through all the fuss!
It was a huge wrench leaving Arkaig behind to travel home but as you can see, he has settled quickly into his new home and is ruling the roost!
The four kittens had a little holiday to our timeshare just outside Aviemore last week.
We had an unexpected wee delay in handing over Achanalt & Ailsh to their new owners and initially thought about cancelling our week and renting it out but came to our senses and thought to ourselves, “what’s another two kittens, when we had already planned on taking two?”
Fish timeNew toy timeAchanalt snoozingAlvie & Arkaig bonding
The kittens of course, were delighted by the vast open plan space, chasing each other round and round and round and round and exploring every nook and cranny of our lodge. Each day was filled with laughter as we watched their antics. They were amazingly well behaved and we certainly would have no hesitation if the same situation arose in the future. Although having Ailsh on our team for a game of Articulate was possibly not the best choice!
Much to our delight – being avid tennis fans – the kittens all enjoyed the Australian Open as much as we did.
It was a truly magical getaway, one that we’ll cherish forever 💕
