Whether it be a private individual, a corporation or even the Câmara Municipal Portimão, who saw fit to donate a sizeable amount towards the Association for Protection of Animals Algarve’s cat-colonies and SNiP. Their ongoing Spaying and Neutering Programme, is APAA’s fighting tool, against the ever-growing feral cat population. Problem is not just here on the Algarve. Portugal, generally but other countries also.

Jenny Clarke, President of APAA, together with Zélia Santos her right-hand Cat-Woman, will, hopefully, receive another grant this year. The cost of neutralising a cat depends on its sex. Males, are a lot easier their ‘tackle’ is on the outside.” Jenny is serious. “But, the ladies are a little more complicated, and internal invasive surgery is required.” Not for the squeamish. ”Also, they may be pregnant.” Depending on the duration, the vet will decide whether to terminate whilst operating. “Look, it isn’t a choice anyone wants to make.” Agreed. Another But? “There is the problem with the unborn kittens. They may not be the wholesome, fluffy little cuties we imagine. Mother has been mated with many times and the result also of in-breeding destroys the poor little youngsters' gene base. They are sometimes limbless or so weak they will not survive.” If the sickly ones do survive then they are future bait for the males in the colony. Food for thought.

20th April Joki/Reikie treatments and demonstrations Holistic Health Day in Edifiçio Pluma Portimão. 10€ Vegan refreshments. Call Paul (+351) 910 665 601. Funds were donated to APAA and Portimão Soup Kitchen. APAA’s Fun ‘Quiz Lunch’ and Raffle, At the ever-popular VIMAR Grill, Carvoeiro 23 April 12.30 for 1.00 Choice of tasty Roast Pork or Grilled Dourada. Couverts, veg soup, desserts, drinks, etc. 22€ Members 24€ Non* More details to follow for May’s agenda! 6 May Pop-Up Shop ‘O Tasco’, 19 May Anita’s Mad Hatter’s Buffet Lunch Special Plants on sale Garden Party. 24 May Pop-Up classics on sale at Manu’s (Pescadora) Figueira.

Can’t make it? Why not visit Charity Shops in Alvor and Silves? Always bursting with goodies, ornaments, duvets, rugs, and larger household items. Friendly staff are always on site to chat and help Not forgetting Jenny’s jams, preserves, and marmalades with new yummy recipes and Jackie’s cookies too!

Funds raised not only help to look after and feed cat colonies but abandoned often injured dogs too. If you can help contact Jenny. “Always need cat food and volunteers!” If you have time on your hands and want to join in please think of Team APAA!

*Book with Jenny (+351) 919 041 903 Ask about the vegetarian option. Or events.apaaportugal@gmail.com General Jenny: info.apaaportugal@gmail.com Cat Colonies: zelia.santos@live.co.uk