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Over 3m UK cats not microchipped
cat chip being scanned
Cat owners in the south east were most likely to microchip their pet, according to survey findings.

Cats Protection urge owners to get their pets chipped

Nearly half the UK's cats are not microchipped, according to a survey carried out by Cats Protection and the Pet Food Manufacturers Association.

The Pet Population (microchipping) Survey 2015 found that 3.3 million of the UK's 7.4 million pet cats have not been microchipped.

In the south east, 69 per cent of cat owners microchipped their pets - the highest percentage in the UK. Scottish cat owners were found to be least likely to do so, however, with just 32 per cent having their cat microchipped.

With National Microchipping Month now upon us, Cats Protection is urging owners to get their pets chipped.

“The procedure is simple, relatively painless and essential to ensure the ongoing welfare of a family pet," said Karen Thompson, deputy manager at the charity’s national adoption centre. "The cost is minimal but the joy felt by an owner when their pet is found is priceless.”

Countless owners have been reunited with their lost pets by their microchip, the charity says, including a cat called Fred whose owners had to leave him behind when they move from Cornwall to France as he escaped prior to the move.

Fred's owners had however updated hs microchip with their new French phone number and Cats Protection reunited them four years later when Fred turned up at their Launceston and District branch. Fred is now enjoying a new life in France with his family.

“Fred’s happy ending was only possible because his owners had updated his details which many people forget to do,” Karen added.

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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.