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Couples turn to cats
Cats are replacing children, a survey suggests

As modern couples are beginning to wait until later on in life to have children, it appears that cats are taking the place of babies in their owners' lives.

A survey carried out to celebrate the launch of new website, Cats vs Dogs, found that four in 10 cat owners treat their new feline friend like a baby.

Our affection doesn't stop there, however, as 74 per cent of those to take part in the survey admitted to trusting their cat more than their partner, best friend or family.

One in five owners said they would genuinely give their cat the kiss of life if necessary and 34 per cent even felt they had a "psychic connection" with their cat.

It appears that such devotion from the nation's cat owners could be leading to disgruntled partners, with a third of people saying their partner is jealous of their relationship with their cat.

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Antibiotic Amnesty survey opens

News Story 1
 The Responsible Use of Medicines Alliance - Companion Animal and Equine (RUMA - CA&E) has launched a survey which seeks to measure the success of this year's Antibiotic Amnesty campaign.

Its results will help the group to calculate how many unused or out-of-date antibiotics were returned as part of the campaign throughout November. Practices are also asked how they engaged with clients to raise awareness of the issue.

Participating practices can enter a prize draw to win up to 100 in vouchers for taking part. Further prizes from BSAVA and Webinar Vet will be available for practices with the best input.

The survey takes a few minutes to complete and will be running throughout December. It can be accessed via this link

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News Shorts
Bluetongue cases lead to restricted zone extension

Following the detection of new cases of bluetongue virus serotype 3 (BTV-3), the restricted zone has been extended to include additional parts of Hampshire, Wiltshire, Oxfordshire and North Yorkshire, as well as Bournemouth, Christchurch, Poole and part of Dorset.

The zone now covers 28 counties and unitary authorities in England. As of 16 December, 185 cases of BTV-3 have been confirmed in England and Wales during the current vector period.

Bluetongue is a notifiable disease. Suspected cases must be reported on 03000 200 301 in England or 03003 038 268 in Wales. In Scotland, suspected cases should be reported to the local field services office. Suspected cases in Northern Ireland should be reported to the DAERA Helpline on 0300 200 7840 or by contacting the local DAERA Direct Veterinary Office.

A map of the area where movement restrictions apply can be found here.