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RSPCA highlights plight of black cats
Black and black and white cats are seen more often in RSPCA centres than any other colour.

Pet owners urged to look beyond coat colour

On Black Cat Appreciation Day (17 August), the RSPCA is urging people to look beyond an animal’s appearance and understand that coat colour makes no difference to how much love they have to give.

RSPCA cat behaviour and welfare expert Sam Watson said: “All cats are individuals with their own quirks and personality, so I recommend people try to look beyond their colour to find the right match for them.

“At the RSPCA we care for all animals and believe each one deserves a second chance at happiness. If anyone is looking to become a cat owner we would urge them to adopt a rescue cat as there are so many that need loving homes.”

Rehoming figures published by the RSPCA show that black and black and white cats are seen more often in their centres than any other colour. Black cats are also most overlooked, taking on average 30 days to find a new home, compared to an average of 19 days for ginger cats.

The charity believes it could be because black cats are more common, but also that ginger and tabby cats are seen as more unusual or different.

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Equine Disease Surveillance report released for Q4 2025

News Story 1
 The latest Equine Disease Surveillance report has been released, with details on equine disease from Q4 of 2025.

The report, produced by Equine Infectious Disease Surveillance, includes advice on rule changes for equine influenza vaccination.

Statistics and maps detail recent outbreaks of equine herpes virus, equine influenza, equine strangles and equine grass sickness. A series of laboratory reports provides data on virology, bacteriology, parasitology and toxicosis.

This issue also features a case study of orthoflavivus-associated neurological disease in a horse in the UK. 

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News Shorts
RCVS annual renewal fee for vets due

RCVS' annual renewal fee for veterinary surgeons is now due. Vets must pay their renewal fee before Wednesday, 1 April 2026.

This year's standard annual fee has increased to 431 from last year's 418. This is an approximately three per cent increase, as approved by RCVS Council and the Privy Council.

Tshidi Gardner, RCVS treasurer, said: "The small fee increase will be used to help deliver both our everyday activities and our new ambitious Strategic Plan, which includes aims such as achieving new legislation, reviewing the Codes of Professional Conduct and supporting guidance, and continuing to support the professions through activities such as the Mind Matters Initiative, RCVS Academy and career development."

A full breakdown of the new fees is on the RCVS website. Information about tax relief is available on the UK government website.