So what if Harry the House Pet...

So what if Harry the House Pet has 11 toes, a snakelike tail and a cry like an incoming missile?

He and other less-than-perfect felines will be given a chance to rub furry shoulders with some of the best and brightest of the cat world at the National Champion Cat Contest that starts Saturday at the Rose Bowl in Pasadena.

To be sure, most of the attention will be focused on the fancy cats vying for the national championship. All breeds, from Persians to Russian blues, will be awarded scores for size, shape and appearance by judges from around the country. The big contest is sponsored by the American Cat Assn., and it’s too late to enter Harry in that competition.

But owners of “average” cats can still enter them in a special house pet competition in which prizes will be awarded to owners of felines with the most toes, loudest meow or longest tail. Call (805) 251-2038 by today to enter. The entry fee is $30.

And for those who want to take home a tabby, a group called the California State Humane Officers will be giving away abandoned cats and kittens.

The event will be held in the stadium near Gate F. It runs from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and Feb. 3. A donation of $5 for adults and $4 for children is requested. Organizers said proceeds will be used to support animal rescue and shelter organizations.