With its long, heavily furred tail, distinct solid body and gentle personality, it's not hard to see why the Maine coon is becoming a popular breed with cat lovers.

Vicki Hodson, of Ancats, showed her adorable eight-kilogram Maine coon named Gran Torino (GT for short) and he drew plenty of attention from the public and judges.

Four international judges adjudicated about 70 cats, including pedigree and domestic varieties, at the Ancats show, held at the Woonona Bulli RSL Club.

As well as the Maine coon, other cats on show included the Norwegian forest cat, Persian, Burmese, ragdoll and toyger breeds.

Cronulla-based breeder and international cat show judge Bambi Edwards also showed a new colour of Burmese cat at the event - the cinnamon Burmese colour breed.

Mrs Edwards has bred cats for 40 years at her home — Burmese, Siamese, Oriental and ragdoll kittens. Husband Brian Edwards, also president of Ancats, said his favourite breed was the Burmese for its easygoing and sunny disposition.

"They are a cat for everybody," he said. "They don't have a mean streak in them and they are a great family pet because they are so good with kids and easy to look after."

Mr Edwards said Ancats was the only national cat club, registering kittens and presenting cat shows across Australia. He said it encouraged responsible pet ownership including microchipping of cats and keeping them indoors.