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.
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

'Paw-cassos' create artwork for charity
Rescue cat, Banjo, with his artwork

Cats produce virtual paintings to raise funds for Cats Protection

Creative cats at Cats Protection’s Belfast Adoption Centre have produced some unique artwork in order to raise money for the charity.

Residents of the adoption centre were given a tablet and painting app, in order to avoid dirty paws, to make virtual paintings expressing their creativity.

The unusual project has provided the rescue cats with hours of stimulation and enjoyment and hopes to raise vital funds for the charity so they can continue to help more cats and kittens this winter.

Bel Livingstone, manager of the adoption centre, explained: “We always knew our cats were special but I really didn’t realise the wealth of untapped talent here. Everyone’s welcome to come along and view the cat art on display and of course take the opportunity to meet the artists.”

Volunteer Valeria Higgins, who initiated the project, said: “The cats displayed very different artistic styles. Some were very keen to start painting and would cover the whole canvas within a matter of seconds, while others would look at the screen and ponder what they wanted to draw – ending up with just a single paw print in the middle of the painting. All the artwork is totally unique.”

One of the feline "Paw-cassos" in need of a new home is affectionate three-year-old Banjo, whose use of blobs and splotches, combined with pleasing colour combinations, makes for a unique and thought-provoking home decoration.

The cats produced a total of 39 paintings, with prices starting from £1 for a small print and framed paintings for £10. The art was on sale at Cats Protection’s
Christmas Craft Fair in Belfast on Saturday, November 30.

Images courtesy of Cats Protection

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

RCVS announces 1CPD app update

News Story 1
 The RCVS has announced a new version of its 1CPD mobile app, with enhanced features for veterinary surgeons and veterinary nurses to record their continuing professional development.

The mobile app includes a new 'what would you like to do?' shortcut for frequent tasks, a notification badge, and the ability to scan a QR code from the home screen to easily record an activity.

Users will be prompted to update the app from the App Store or Google Play the next time they log in. For more information, visit RCVS.org.uk 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
Nominations open for RCVS and VN Council elections

The nomination period for the 2026 RCVS Council and VN Council elections is now open, with three veterinary surgeon seats and two veterinary nurse seats available.

Prospective candidates can download an information pack and nomination form from the RCVS website. Individuals can nominate themselves for the elections, with the results to be announced in the spring.

Clare Paget, the recently appointed RCVS Registrar and elections returning officer, said: "If you want to play your part in influencing and moulding how the professions are regulated, and making key decisions on matters of great importance to your peers, the public and animal health and welfare, please consider standing for RCVS Council or VN Council next year."

Nominations close at 5pm on Saturday, 31 January 2026.