Founded in 2025, the Gulf Coast Cat Expo began with a road trip, a shared love for cats, and a conversation that sparked a vision. On the way to a cat café in Hattiesburg, a cherished friend described her tireless fundraising work in support of For Pet’s Sake Rescue – running donation booths, selling donated items, and investing her own time and money to give cats a second chance. Her selfless commitment to animal welfare was more than inspiring; it was transformative.

That moment planted a seed – if one person could make such an impact through dedication alone, what could a whole community do together? On that road trip, the idea for the Gulf Coast Cat Expo was born.

Rooted in Coastal Mississippi – where the warmth of the people matches the beauty of the coast — the Expo was envisioned as a vibrant annual hub where cats, creativity, and community impact come together. It’s a space that celebrates compassion through artistry, advocacy, and connection.