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'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

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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.