An Abundance of Caution

🐾 Featuring an emergency announcement… a “Podium of Truth” … and a set of rules that takes an Abundance of Caution just a little too far

This story is part of The Diary of an Orange Cat — now available as a book and as a complete 24-episode podcast series.

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^{Serafina explains the latest Bird Protection Equipment requirements under the new Zebra Crossing Settings}

STORY OUTLINE

When Serafina summons the cats to an urgent meeting at her house, Weasley and his friends are braced for another long-winded announcement—but nothing quite prepares them for what follows.

With the help of a new podium, a microphone, and a group of “expert” guest speakers, Serafina unveils a sweeping set of regulations in response to a perceived bird-related crisis in the community. What begins as concern over a handful of bird deaths quickly escalates into a full-blown system of rules, restrictions, and compliance measures—complete with protective gear, vaccination requirements, and strict limits on everyday activities.

As confusion spreads and questions mount, Winston challenges the evidence behind the claims, while others struggle to make sense of the increasingly elaborate guidelines. Meanwhile, Weasley watches on as the situation spirals into something that feels far removed from the original problem.

BACKGROUND

This story was originally written on April 24th 2022 and draws heavily on the language, tone, and structure of public health messaging during the COVID-19 pandemic—particularly in New Zealand.

Phrases such as “an abundance of caution,” “go hard and fast,” and references to alert levels, vaccination rollouts, and official briefings are woven into the story to create a familiar framework. The introduction of systems like the “Red Traffic Light” setting (reimagined here as “Zebra Crossing Settings”) reflects how quickly new rules and terminology became part of everyday life during that time.

The episode also satirises the way information was communicated and interpreted—through press conferences, social media, and community discussions—where messages could sometimes become distorted, misunderstood, or amplified beyond their original intent.

Set against the backdrop of a small New Zealand community, the story uses humour and exaggeration to explore how fear, uncertainty, and the desire to “do the right thing” can sometimes lead to increasingly complex—and occasionally absurd—solutions.

THE REAL CATS