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RSPCA issues xylitol warning to pet owners
Xylitol is found in some brands of peanut butter.
Charity reports rise in calls about poisonings

The RSPCA has issued a warning to pet owners to avoid giving their pets Xylitol, which is often found in sweet treats and some brands of peanut butter.

Xylitol is a sweeter that is low in calories and used as a substitute for sugar. It is also known as E967 and often used in baking.

While many brands of peanut butter do not include this ingredient, the RSPCA is urging pet owners to check the label before allowing their dogs to have a taste. Xylitol can also be found in chewing gum, including nicotine gums and those that are sugar-free.

Last year, the RSPCA took 1,152 calls regarding animals that may have been poisoned and a further 97 asking for advice about poisons. This is a rise on the 2016 figures, which were were 1,225 and 110, respectively.

RSPCA behaviour and welfare expert Alice Potter said that some owners could be harming their pets without realising.

“You might think saving a bite of cake for your dog is harmless but actually you could be feeding them something toxic,” she said.
 
“What is ok for you to eat may not be ok for your dog or cat. Some of the more common foods like onions or chocolate many pet owners are aware of but we are receiving too many calls about poisonings so we need to raise awareness about the dangers of this artificial sweetener.”

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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.