IAM writing about Jack Straw's Diary (LET, July 22). He has a cat, Abby, who in his eyes disgraced herself by using his red box to relieve herself.

If there had been an accessible litter tray for Abby his papers would have been undamaged.

Abby's behaviour was, in reality, commendable. A clean cat containing her mess and attempting to hide it!

I hope for the sake of all Abby's kind and other pets, that Jack will support the new Animal Welfare Bill which, if successful, will require pet owners to afford 'a duty of care' to their animals.

If this could be recognised in law it would help prevent suffering and there is plenty of that about. Many pets are obtained on a whim without thought about care, cost, 'maintenance' and holiday arrangements. What was once so 'cute' becomes a nuisance.

Responsible pet ownership is akin to responsible parenting which needs to be learned and practised otherwise society is left to pick up the pieces.

SOPHIE JONES (address supplied).