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Study examines impact of cat containment on welfare
cat
Electronic containment systems have been shown to help keep cats safe from roads, but a new study will assess their welfare impacts.
New research will investigate the impact of electronic containment systems on the emotional state of cats

A study by the University of Lincoln will assess the welfare implications of using electronic containment systems on cats.

Researchers will set up a monitoring programme for cats who have been using the system for more than a year, to see how many warnings and corrections the cats receive.

"The tests we are going to perform are going to allow us to have a good picture about cats' behaviour, both with and without a containment system.

Dr Naima Kasbaoui, a researcher involved with the investigation, said:

"Modified collars will be used to monitor the cats' movements and the effect the system has on their roaming."Cat containment systems, which transmit an electric stimulus to the cat's collar when a cat crosses a boundary, have been shown to be effective in keeping them safe from roads and neighbouring gardens. This study will reveal whether the system is having any emotional or physical impact.

Three groups of volunteers will be required to take part in the study – a control group of cats free to wander outside their home without a containment system; a household that has been using a cat containment system for more than one year; and a household where a decision has been made to use a cat containment system, but it has not yet been introduced.

To be eligible, cats should be neutered and between one and 15 years of age. To find out more, contact Dr Kasbaoui by email.

 

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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.