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Study reports ante-mortem and post-mortem findings of rabbits with RHDV2
RHDV2 is currently spreading in areas of the world that were free from it until recently.

Researchers analyse case histories, macroscopic findings and histopathology results.

A new study reporting the clinical features of ante-mortem and post-mortem findings of rabbits with RHDV2 has been published in the Journal of Small Animal Practice (JSAP).

In the study, vets were encouraged to submit case histories and the results of post-mortem examinations of pet rabbits that had died suddenly. Samples taken during the post-mortem were sent for histopathological examination.

Study co-author Frances Harcourt-Brown, said: “Case histories, macroscopic findings and histopathology results were available from 300 rabbits that died suddenly. Of these, 185 (62%) died from RHD and showed characteristic histopathological features of RHD including apoptosis and variable lytic and coagulative hepatocellular necrosis, with the varying distribution.

"Interestingly, macroscopic evidence of disease was not present in all cases – for example, gross liver abnormalities were only reported in 30 per cent of cases, despite all cases showing hepatocellular necrosis on microscopic examination."

She added: “Rapid death and death of other rabbits in the household were common features of RHD. Histopathology was also useful in yielding valuable information about other causes of death in the rabbits that did not die from RHD.”

Nicola Di Girolamo, editor of JSAP concluded: “This is a terrible disease that is currently spreading in areas of the world that were free from it until recently. Having more evidence on the type of clinical presentations and lesions that should be expected with this disease in rabbit patients is going to be of tremendous value for clinicians.

“Given that there is not always macroscopic evidence of RHD, histopathology is key for the diagnosis of RHD in pet rabbits.”

The study, “RHDV2 epidemic in UK pet rabbits. Part 1: clinical features, gross post-mortem and histopathological findings” can be found in the July issue of the JSAP which is free for BSAVA members. It can also be read online at onlinelibrary.wiley.com

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Defra shares new Sanitary and Phytosanitary guidance

News Story 1
 Defra has published guidance for the vet sector ahead of a proposed UK-EU Sanitary and Phytosanitary agreement.

The agreement, which will change the movement and trade of animals and related products, could see reductions in checks, paperwork and certification. As well as describing regulatory developments, the advice highlights the importance of animal ID, registration and traceability in disease control and other compliance arrangements.

The guidance can be found here. More detail is expected as negotiations progress. 

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News Shorts
Lords Committee opens Pet Parasite Medication inquiry

The House of Lords Environment and Climate Change Committee will launch its inquiry into Pet Parasite Medication (PPM) on Wednesday (3 June).

Focusing on treatments containing fipronil and imidacloprid, the inquiry will seek to understand distribution pathways and the impacts of PPM use and non-use on biodiversity and human health. It will also cover current regulation, monitoring, and the potential implications for pets and their owners.

The committee will hear evidence from environmental non-governmental organisations and research institutes. The public can follow the proceedings live on Parliament TV or in person in the Palace of Westminster.