Your data on MRCVSonline
The nature of the services provided by Vision Media means that we might obtain certain information about you.
Please read our Data Protection and Privacy Policy for details.

In addition, (with your consent) some parts of our website may store a 'cookie' in your browser for the purposes of
functionality or performance monitoring.
Click here to manage your settings.
EmailIphone Application    Posted: 13th June 2024
If you would like to forward this story on to a friend, simply fill in the form below and click send.
Your friend's email:
Your email:
Your name:
 
 
Send Cancel

Mature Moggies Day to celebrate older cats
Flossie gained her Guinness World Records title after being adopted from Cats Protection by Vicki Green.
The annual awareness day was launched by Cats Protection.

Cats Protection is getting ready to champion older cats on Mature Moggies Day.

The charity launched the awareness day, which takes place every year on 16 June, to highlight the benefits that an older cat can bring.

While kittens take just eight days to find homes on average, cats that are 11 years and older typically take one month to be rehomed, according to the charity.

The charity will be sharing information about adopting and looking after older cats. It is also asking owners of senior cats to share their photos and stories on social media using the hashtag #MatureMoggies.

Among the older cats that Cats Protection has previously rehomed is Flossie, who currently holds the Guinness World Records title for being the oldest living cat.

The charity rehomed her two years ago. Now aged 28, she is continuing to do well in her new home in Orpington with owner Vicki Green.

Ms Green said: “I knew from the start that Flossie was a special cat but I didn’t imagine I’d be sharing my home with a world record holder. She’s so affectionate, playful and sweet, especially when you remember how old she is.”

The oldest cat currently being looked after by Cats Protection is Charlie, who is 19 years old. He has been at the charity’s East Norfolk Centre for more than a month.

Improvements in veterinary treatment and pet care mean that cats are living longer. The average life expectancy for pet cats in the UK is now 11.7 years.

Sarah Elliott, central veterinary officer at Cats Protection, said: “Older cats often have established personalities and, as they often have longer stays in care than young cats, our staff and volunteers can know more about their individual likes and dislikes to make sure they are the best fit for you.”

More information about Mature Moggies Day can be found on the Cats Protection website.

Image © Cats Protection

Become a member or log in to add this story to your CPD history

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.