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Charity urges people to rehome rabbits
The Society said it looked after 373 rabbits in its centres during the first half of 2019.
Scottish SPCA reports huge rise in rabbits coming into its care

The Scottish SPCA is urging anyone thinking about getting a rabbit to consider rehoming one.

The call comes after figures released by the charity revealed a 40 per cent rise in the number of rabbits coming into its care. Writing on its website, the Society said it looked after 373 rabbits in its centres during the first half of 2019, compared to 268 in the same period last year.

The Scottish SPCA is highlighting the plight of the popular pet as part of Rabbit Awareness Week (1-9 June).

Sharon Comrie, animal rescue and rehoming superintendent, said: “Some rabbits arrive in our care in a terrible state having been denied basic nutrition and veterinary attention, while others are sadly forgotten pets children have grown tired of.

“The biggest issue is rabbits being put in a hutch and left at the bottom of the garden, with many enduring a life of solitude and boredom. Often the only interaction they have is a brief visit from their owner to bring food and water.

“Many owners even find this to be a chore and it is these rabbits which tend to be dumped outdoors or handed into one of our rescue centres.”

She continued: “While we never encourage taking on a pet on impulse we have many rabbits in our care looking for good, permanent homes. Anyone thinking of rehoming a rabbit should ensure they have the time, commitment and financial ability to provide a happy and healthy life.”

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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.