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TB-resistant cattle could be bred, study finds
cow
Genetic traits linked to TB resistance were found in healthy cows.
Selective breeding may help control bTB, research shows

Farmers may be able to breed cattle with increased resistance to bovine tuberculosis (bTB), scientists have discovered.

Led by the University of Edinburgh's Roslin Institute, the research compared the genetic codes of healthy and TB-infected female Holstein Friesians.

In the cows that remained unaffected by the disease, scientists identified a number of genetic signatures linked to TB resistance.

Researchers from the institute say the findings are significant, as they help to determine whether bTB control could be improved by selective breeding.
 
Lead researcher Professor Glass, said: “If we can choose animals with better genotypes for TB resistance, then we can apply this information in new breeding programmes alongside other control strategies. It is hoped that can help us to more effectively control TB in cattle.”

The disease is responsible for major economic losses worldwide, impacting both animal welfare and farm profitability. The University of Edinburgh says the effects of bTB cost the UK government £152 million from 2010 to 2011.

Published in the journal Heredity, this study builds on previous research by the institute that indicated genetic make-up could be linked to increased resistance to TB.

A further study will focus on refining the genomic predictors of resistance, for which the institute will collaborate with Scotland's Rural College and the Agri-Food and Biosciences Institute.

The study is available online here.

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Practices urged to audit neutering data

News Story 1
 RCVS Knowledge has called on vet practices to audit their post-operative neutering outcomes.

It follows the release of the 2024 NASAN benchmarking report, which collates data from neutering procedures performed on dogs, cats and rabbits.

The benchmarking report enables practices in the UK and Ireland to compare their post-operative outcomes to the national average. This includes the rate of patients lost to follow-up, which in 2024 increased to 23 per cent.

Anyone from the practice can submit the data using a free template. The deadline for next report is February 2026.

Visit the RCVS Knowledge website to complete an audit. 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
UK's BSE risk status downgraded

The WOAH has downgraded the UK's international risk status for BSE to 'negligible'.

Defra says that the UK's improved risk status recognises the reputation for having the highest standards for biosecurity. It adds that it demonstrates decades of rigorous animal control.

Outbreaks of Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy, also known as mad cow disease, have previously resulted in bans on Britain's beef exports.

The UK's new status could lead to expanded trade and better confidence in British beef.

Christine Middlemiss, the UK's chief veterinary officer, said: "WOAH's recognition of the UK as negligible risk for BSE is a significant milestone and is a testament to the UK's strong biosecurity measures and the hard work and vigilance of farmers and livestock keepers across the country who have all played their part in managing the spread of this disease.