Here’s another safety tip!
READING the “safety tip” in OUR CATS (8 April 2005) reminded me of something we do now when we have a litter of kittens.

Once we had a gorgeous litter of Oriental and Siamese kittens. A Lilac Oriental kitten got stuck between the radiator and the wall and, in spite of all our efforts, and those of our vet, she died.
After this, we blocked the space at the side with pre-formed insulating strips designed to protect pipes in lofts, etc. It can be cut to size and, being pliable, can be wedged into a confined space (so can a kitten).

Nancy Webster (Nanpema Siamese & Orientals)


Re. “Club Membership”

SO some exhibitors (or at least one) don’t think area clubs are worth the cost of subscription? (Our Cats, No. 1063, p19).

No wonder so many such clubs are struggling to survive and attract enough members to their AGM’s.

I speak with some authority as Acting Secretary of a club which nearly “died” through just such lack of support. We have worked really hard to try to keep our club going, and to be able to put on our show this year.

Perhaps the anonymous exhibitor only attends breed club shows? If so, what does he/she do for the rest of the year? Just look at the show diary, two pages before the one where your letter appears. There are no less than 15 area club shows listed, most of which are large and successful, but the clubs which organise these need members, and their subscriptions to be able to continue their work.

Perhaps there are too many shows, but at least do not condemn all area clubs as not worth the price of a small subscription. And even better, instead of criticising, get involved and help your local club to justify its existance!

Betty Newbury, Acting Secretary, Hertfordshire & Middlesex Cat Club