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Scottish SPCA appeal for information after cat poisoning
The most common cause of cat poisoning is antifreeze.
Pet owners urged to be vigilant

A Scottish animal welfare charity is appealing for information after a cat was poisoned in North Lanarkshire.

The Scottish SPCA was alerted by a concerned owner whose cat had been taken ill in Caldercruix, Airdrie. The organisation is now urging owners be on their guard when letting their pets outside.

“We are concerned as the cat owner believes there have been a number of incidents in the area,” commented SPCA inspector Jack Marshall.  “Should this be the case there is likely a source of poison somewhere in the area and we want pet owners to be aware of the potential danger.”

Mr Marshall added that the most common cause of cat poisoning is antifreeze (ethylene glycol). The liquid is usually colourless and odourless, but it has a sweet taste that appeals to dogs in particular but cats will also inject it.

“By the time symptoms occur, such as vomiting, lethargy and, in the latter stages, head shaking and coma, it is normally too late to treat,” Mr Marchall continued. “Pet owners in the area should be vigilant when letting their cats out of the house, and should supervise their animals where possible.”

Anyone with information is being urged to contact the Scottish SPCA animal helpline on 03000 999 999.

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Applications open for MMI research grants

News Story 1
 RCVS' Mind Matters Initiative (MMI) has launched round two of its veterinary mental health research grants.

Researchers have until 11.59pm on Wednesday, 28 May 2025 to apply for a grant for research which reflects MMI's 2025 focus areas.

Only one Impact Grant was awarded last year, and so this year there are two Discovery Grants and one Impact Grants available. Each Discovery Grant is worth £5,000 and the Impact Grant is worth £15,000.

For more information or to apply, email researchgrants@rcvs.org.uk to contact the MMI team.

 

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News Shorts
BBC Radio 4 documentary addresses corporate fees

BBC Radio 4's File on 4 Investigates has released a documentary exploring how corporate-owned veterinary practices may be inflating bills to increase profit.

Released on 15 April, 'What's Happening To Your Vet Bills?' revealed the policies which many corporate groups have in place to increase their profits. This included targets and upgrades which veterinary teams are tasked with meeting on a regular basis.

It also features Anrich Vets, an independently-owned practice based in Wigan. Following the case of Staffordshire terrier Benjy, who is diagnosed with a tumour, the documentary shares how the team were able to offer contextualised care and advice to make the procedure as affordable as possible for his owners.

The documentary can be heard on demand on BBC iPlayer.