Birmingham Feline Fanciers (BFF) cat club is a nonprofit corporation founded in 1970.  Their annual CFA cat show, held the last weekend of January, benefits charities and humane societies.  It usually consists of 225 pedigree cats, approximately  35 household pets, and numerous pet supply vendors from across the southeast.  BFF has contributed over $170,000 to pet charities and has paid the spay-neuter costs for more than 1,200 low income pet owners. 

In 2008 the club added a feline art show to the mix.  This addition is extremely popular with both the exhibitors and spectators.   The event has attracted many people who might not have been aware of the cat show but heard about the art.  Alabama artists from school children to established artisans have submitted their work.  The show usually attracts 20-30 pieces.  The club membership, which includes Birmingham artist Richard Russell who envisioned the art show, judges the artwork.  The artists offer their works for sale.  There is a $350 maximum on the price of the art.  The artist receives 70% of the purchase price.  This year, of the 27 pieces entered, 6 were sold. See art slide show on the Feline Art blog.

The 2011 show brought in 1375 spectators, many who went to see the art as well as the cats.  Being creative by adding a feline art show, a blog, a club website, or eNewsletter to attract spectators are things other clubs should consider to help their bottom line  Contact Jim Kincaid for more info.