hi,
i'm sorry to hear of your friend's experience. sadly people can act in ways not always polite or kind. it's really unfortunate that happens but it does.
i hope your friend will be able to find auctions that she can participate it, there are a lot and i've been to some and there are a lot of nice people. i've also attended some "mixed' auctions with other cats and didn't experience any of that or see it. so i'm sure not all people are like that.
please if you would direct her to our group and she can inquire about the blog some KittyCatS customers that list auctions. perhaps she can find one there for her cats.
again i'm so sorry for your friend's experience, and it's certainly not behavior i'd condone and i HOPE our customers treat those they meet who may participate with different cats with kindness and respect.
it's great there are many choices out there for the different tastes people have.
you're a good friend to share your concern about her! i hope she's ok!
all the best,
callie cline