CAT CLUBS AND CAT HOMES 



I AM almost afraid to think, much less to say, how many 

 years ago it was that I attended the first Cat Show held at 

 the Crystal Palace, which was organised by Mr. Harrison 

 Weir. I well remember, however, when the National Cat 

 Club was founded in 1887 ; and since that date the, number 

 of fanciers has steadily increased, and many new clubs and 

 societies have been formed. Instead of one show a year, 

 there are many, and Mr. Harrison Weir's prophecy is ful- 

 filled. I quote from the preface of his book on cats 

 written in 1889 : "But should a new order of things arise 

 the cat will not only be a useful, serviceable helpmate, 

 but an object of increasing interest, admiration, and 

 cultured beauty, and thus being of value, will also be 

 profitable." 



The National Cat Club, now under the able management 

 of Mrs. Stennard-Robinson, holds its two principal shows at 

 the Crystal Palace and the Botanical Gardens, and every 

 year the entries increase and the improvement in the various 

 breeds of cats is most noticeable. 



The Cat Club came into existence in 1898, being insti- 

 tuted by Lady Marcus Beresford, who has done such go< d 

 work in the cat world. The excellently managed shows 

 held yearly at St. Stephen's Hall, Westminster, testify to the 

 unwearied exertions and lavish generosity of the founder of 

 the club. These shows have been held in aid of various 

 deserving charities. 



Other cat shows in all parts of England are held during 



