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Figures show scale of animal hoarding in the UK
The RSPCA has received more than 1,000 calls already this year in relation to animal hoarding.  

New figures published by the RSPCA show that the charity has received more than 1,000 calls already this year in relation to animal hoarding.   

RSPCA vet Kayleigh Hill is leading a scheme in Manchester to help those hoarding animals. She said that, since the scheme started, she and her team have visited 60 houses in the area, with each household having an average of 19 cats.

“What we want to do through this scheme is to go into people’s homes and help them,” she said. “I’m not interested in how many cats a person owns but rather how well they are able to cope and to look after them.

“We aren’t punishing people, we are working with them to reduce their animals to a number that is manageable for them. We take welfare scores of the cats each visit and what we are finding is that their scores are improving and are staying at that improved level.”

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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.