If you had any doubt that the culture’s obsession with all things cat-ness had flamed out, well guess again. The effects of cats’ global domination were in full force this past weekend at CatCon 2017. Held in its new home, the Pasadena Convention Center, CatCon brought together cat lovers, cat ladies and cat gentlemen, cat advocates, cat merchandisers and cat Instagram stars to celebrate the charms and mysteries of these furry creatures. I partly attended to do research on product trends for the monthly cat lady column I write, but mostly attended to be a part of the feline phenomena.

There were meet & greets for Instagram stars like Nala, and advocates like Kitten Lady; seminars for special needs cats and kitten rescue; the Pasadena Humane Society & SPCA held adoptions (over 100 cats adopted at the event); cat video awards (hosted by Battlestar Galactica and Lucifer star Tricia Helfer); and products, ranging from robo litter boxes and water fountains to cat fashions (t-shirts, dresses and accessories galore!) and cat-related arts and crafts. One enterprising and unique line featured cat hair that had been cleaned, carded and spun into wool to make upcycled jewelry and other items. Who knew I could repurpose my cat’s hairballs into a crafty headband?

Here are some of the highlights from CatCon. Can you fur the love?