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Ninety cattle a day slaughtered for bTB
More than 32,000 cattle were slaughtered in Britain last year as part of bTB control measures

Latest figures released by Defra

Nearly 90 cattle a day have been slaughtered in Britain in an effort to control the spread of bovine tuberculosis, latest statistics have revealed.

The figures for 2013, collated by the Animal Health and Veterinary Laboratories Agency, represents an improvement on the previous year when 103 animals a day were slaughtered.

In total, the number of cattle compulsorily slaughtered as either having bTB or come in direct contact with other infected cattle, was 32,620 in 2013, compared to 37,734 in 2012.

The number of new herd incidents in the year fell from 5,153 to 4,815.

The statistics have been published by Defra.

 

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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.