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UK pig sector halves antibiotic use in two years
Use of the Highest Priority Critically Important Antibiotics represented just 0.08 per cent of total antibiotic use in pigs in 2017.
Report highlights collaborative effort to address AMR

The UK pig industry has more than halved its antibiotic use in two years, according to a report published by the National Pig Association (NPA).

Figures published in the latest Pig Industry Antibiotic Stewardship Programme show the sector is on course to meet its target of reducing usage to 99mg/PCU by 2020.

The figures also show that usage of the Highest Priority Critically Important Antibiotics (cephalosporins, fluoroquinolones and colistin) represented just 0.08 per cent of total antibiotic use in pigs in 2017.

“The progress made in the two years since has been nothing short of staggering,” said NPA senior policy advisor Georgina Crayford. “That is testament to the way all parts of the industry have come together to, first accept, then rise to the challenge – this is a truly collaborative effort. 
 
“Everybody understands that there is still much more to do. But after reading this report, it will become clear to everybody just how hard this industry is working to reduce and refine antibiotic use and improve overall pig health.”

The Pig Industry Antibiotic Stewardship Programme illustrates how producers, vets, feed and pharmaceutical companies are working with Government to address the problem of antibiotic resistance. Compiled with members of the Pig Health and Welfare Council, it shows how farmers and vets are working together to improve biosecurity and disease control on farms.

The report is available online for interested stakeholders and will be sent to MPs that have expressed an interest in the subject. 

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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.