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EmailIphone Application    Posted: 17th August 2016
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Four-eared rescue cat finds a home
batman
"Just when you think you've seen it all, a four-eared cat comes in the door!"

'Batman' has four ears due to a rare genetic mutation

A four-eared rescue cat named Batman has found internet fame and a new home in Pennsylvania.

The young cat was taken to the Western Pennsylvania Humane Society as his owner could no longer care for him.

Batman's unusual looks are down to a rarely seen genetic mutation, which has been documented as far back as 1938 in Ohio. It is thought to be a recessive gene mutation that is required from both the mother and father in order to produce four ears.

The society's managing director Hala Nuemah commented: "As an open door shelter, we take in and care for any animal brought to us. Just when you think you've seen it all, a four-eared cat comes in the door!"

Despite his unusual looks, three-year-old Batman has been adopted by a loving new owner in Pennsylvania after spending a month at the shelter. Initially he was not ready to be rehomed as he was undergoing treatment for an upper respiratory tract infection.

Caitlin Lasky, the society's marketing communications manager, told ABC News that Batman had been adopted by a young girl and her mother. "It was fitting because the little girl like superheroes," she added. 

 

Image © Western PA Humane Society

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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.