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

RSPB warns against glittery ‘reindeer food’
‘Reindeer food’ containing substances such as oats and glitter are available to buy at this time of year.
Mixes containing plastics are harmful to wildlife

The RSPB is warning families not to scatter glitter or sequins outdoors for ‘Santa’s reindeers’ this Christmas, as they are harmful to wildlife and the environment.

‘Reindeer food’ containing substances such as oats and glitter are available to buy at this time of year, so that children can scatter it on the lawn on Christmas Eve.

However, the RSPB is urging the public not to use mixes containing glitter or sequins, as anything made from plastic causes stomach problems for most animals if eaten, as well as being harmful to the environment.

Cake sprinkles or edible glitter should also be avoided as they often contain e-numbers.

Instead, the charity is recommending a nature-friendly recipe that can be safely eaten by birds. RSPB recommends mixing up raw porridge oats, sunflower seeds and nyjer seeds. For colour, blueberries or apple can be added.

Sprinkle into a tray or bowl on Christmas Eve for a festive treat for reindeer (and birds).

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

Equine Disease Surveillance report released for Q4 2025

News Story 1
 The latest Equine Disease Surveillance report has been released, with details on equine disease from Q4 of 2025.

The report, produced by Equine Infectious Disease Surveillance, includes advice on rule changes for equine influenza vaccination.

Statistics and maps detail recent outbreaks of equine herpes virus, equine influenza, equine strangles and equine grass sickness. A series of laboratory reports provides data on virology, bacteriology, parasitology and toxicosis.

This issue also features a case study of orthoflavivus-associated neurological disease in a horse in the UK. 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
Applications open for BEVA Back in the Saddle

The British Equine Veterinary Association (BEVA) has opened applications for its 'Back in the Saddle' coaching programme.

The online scheme offers structured group coaching for members wanting to reflect on their career path and regain clarity. Members may be returning to work after leave, uncertain about next steps or reassessing direction.

Attendees will benefit from impartial guidance and practical tools to support their professional development. Members are encouraged to take a 'proactive, future-focused approach' to their careers.

The sessions, taking place on Wednesdays from 7.30pm-9pm, are open to BEVA members with more than five years' experience. The first session takes place on Wednesday, 3 June 2026.

Applications will close on Wednesday, 27 May 2026.