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Farm industry data
Cattle Health Report is an industry must-read

The cross-industry initiative, Cattle Health and Welfare Group (CHAWG), has released its first annual report.

The report, which has been very well-received, gives a realistic overview of cattle health and welfare in Great Britain. It focuses on the industry's main challenges, such as mastitis, nutrition and infectious diseases.

Members of CHAWG include the British Cattle Veterinary Association (BCVA), the National Farmers' Union (NFU), and the RSPCA, amongst other high-profile organisations.

British Veterinary Association (BVA) president, Carl Padgett, commented: "This is an excellent report - it's basically a GB-wide state of the nation for cattle health and welfare, which is what we've been after for a very long time."

CHAWG have used data from DEFRA, and bodies from the devolved governments, as well as studies from the Royal Veterinary College (RVC) and others to produce the report. However, many believe these sources should be extended.

BCVA vice president, Jonathan Statham, said that though the report is a great example of industry cooperation, there are a number of vets that could contribute additional data from farm level.

This view was supported by Christianne Glossop, CVO for Wales: "To ensure the free movement of healthy cattle, it is important farmers and vets have the best information," she said.

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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.