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Secret Life of Cats sparks sales boom

Amazon reports soaring sales of pet tracking devices

Following BBC Two's recent Secret Life of Cats broadcast, it seems the nation's pet owners are eager to find out what their own furry friends get up to in secret.

Amazon's newly released G-PAWS GPS Data Recorder, which went on sale on June 15, has seen a 350 per cent increase in pre-orders since the programme aired on June 13.

The Secret Life of Cats revealed the findings of researchers at the University of Lincoln, who studied the activities of 50 cats over a 24-hour period, using GPS collars and cat-cams.

The device from Amazon also uses GPS technology to track the movements of cats and dogs, allowing owners to observe their wanderings online, from an aerial or street-level map.

"Pet GPS tracking devices are a fun way to find out about the secret lives of your pets," said Xavier Garambois, Vice President of EU Retail at Amazon.

Paul Dore from Amazon's Pet Supplies store, added: "Interest in GPS devices for animals has recently soared. This is the fastest pre-ordering pet technology item we have had in the store to date."

 

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The secret life of cats

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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. 

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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.