Cats and cat fanciers came to Seaside on Jan. 5 for the Emerald Cat Club show at the Seaside Civic and Convention Center.

Rows of cats in carriers welcomed guests. At the front of the room, judges examined entries for a series of categories, issuing ribbons for the winners and prizes — fish, rosettes and toys.

The show is one of a “dwindling number” of cat shows, said show manager Linda Hammer. Previous shows have been held in Seaside in the summer; this is the Emerald Cat Club’s first winter show.

The club, affiliated with the Cat Fanciers’ Association, is based in Oregon, with members primarily from Oregon and Washington.

“These are pretty mellow cats,” Hammer said. “They’re used to going to shows. They fly.”

Kittens compete at four months to eight months; cats over eight months show as an adult.

Along with championship, premiership and registered kittens, entrants included household cats and registered cats competing as household pets. Altered and unaltered cats compete in separate categories.

Cats receive a first, second, or third; best of breed; or best or second best of breed, and best of color or second best of color.

Household cats are judged based solely on beauty and condition.

Hammer, whose cats are retired, owns two Siberians and an orange champion. “My Siberian has won about everything that can be won,” she said. “It’s time to let somebody else win.”

Emerald Cat Club events are open to anyone “who loves cats.”

“We don’t discriminate,” Hammer said. “The more the merrier.”