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Rise in vets treating small furries for heat-related conditions
Two-thirds of vets saw animals requiring treatment for hot weather-related conditions last summer.
BVA reminds owners to protect small furries from soaring temperatures

The British Veterinary Association (BVA) has reported an increase in the number of companion animal vets treating smaller pets for heat-related conditions.

Figures from the BVA’s Voice of the Veterinary Profession Survey found that almost two-thirds of vets (64%) saw animals requiring treatment for conditions relating to hot weather in 2018 - a figure significantly higher than in previous years, with 48 per cent reporting in 2016 and 40 per cent in 2015.

In light of the recent heatwave, the BVA is reminding pet owners to protect small furries from soaring temperatures by keeping them away from direct sunlight and with plenty of fresh water.

BVA junior vice president, Daniella Dos Santos said: “We all know how important it is to stay cool and hydrated in hot weather. Pets can really suffer in such high temperatures and we should not forget that small furries will need help to cope.
 
“In the wild, rabbits and guinea pigs would hide away during the hottest points of the day and feed in the mornings or evening. It is up to owners to help protect pets from extreme temperatures so remembering to provide shade and plenty of fresh water as well as keeping hutches and cages out of direct sunlight and well.”

The BVA’s Voice of the Veterinary Profession survey also reveals that 54 per cent of vets saw multiple cases last summer of animals requiring treatment owing to hot weather, with one in five vets (20%) reporting more than six such cases.

Vets working in companion animal practice or mixed practice were most likely to have treated dogs for heat-related conditions (64% and 66% respectively), with smaller but significant numbers of companion animal vets having seen cases in rabbits (15%) and cats (11%). 

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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.