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Votes are in for Britain's first Purr Minister
Kevin
Kevin, Britain's first Purr Minister.

Kevin is Westminster's cat of the year

The search for the top cat of Westminster is now over - after weeks of voting, Britain's first ever Purr Minister has been elected.

MPs and Lords from across the country began nominating their cat companions at the start of the month, with each hopeful submitting a "Manifursto" to the charity's website.

Following a 16-year career in eating and sleeping, Kevin has been crowned Purr Minister, winning 29.8 per cent of the vote.

Far from apathetic about voting, members of the public were impressed by Kevin's strong sense of purr-pose and eye-catching Manifursto.

Lindsey Quinlan, Battersea’s head of cattery, said: "Here at Battersea we know the British public love their cats and we’re so pleased to see that our politicians do too.

"The inaugural competition was certainly memorable and we hope Kevin enjoys his exciting year as our first Purr Minister and we wish him well!"

Kevin's election as Purr Minister coincides with the third anniversary of former Battersea cat Larry being appointed chief mouser at No. 10 Downing Street.

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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.