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Police force considers feline crime fighters
Cat on the prowl
Moggies on patrol: Durham Police could soon be the first constabulary in the UK to introduce police cats.

Durham constabulary looks into recruiting the UK’s first police cat

Durham Police could soon be the first constabulary in the UK to introduce police cats, following a little girl’s letter to the chief constable asking why there are no felines on patrol.

Five-year-old Eliza Damson-Hopper wrote to Durham Police chief Mike Barton suggesting the police should use cats as well as dogs to fight crime.

She received a reply saying he would ask his inspector who is in charge of police dogs ‘to think about the idea’.

The force has since confirmed that it will consider using cats in a not-yet-specified role.

Inspector Richie Allen, of the dog support unit, told BBC News: "I can confirm the force is looking into recruiting what we believe to be the first UK police cat.

"Their duties and responsibilities have not yet been agreed but if nothing else they will become the force mascot. Of course, if it smells a rat we'll expect it to catch it."

Eliza owns a cat called Mittens and a dog called Susie. Together with her mother, Cheryl Damson from Country Durham, she typed out a letter to the chief constable.

It read: “A police cat would be good as they have good ears and can listen out for danger. Cats are good at finding their way home and could show policemen the way. Cats are good at climbing trees and hunting and could rescue people that are stuck.”

Mr Barton replied saying that he always liked cats and drew a picture of his cat Joey on the back of the letter. 

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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.