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Cats Protection to host feline behaviour conference
"We're constantly being asked why [cats] behave the way they do and it's hard to find all this information in one place" - Daniel Cummings, Cats Protection.

Online event will feature informative sessions and engaging Q&As.

Cats Protection is set to host an online conference focused specifically on feline behaviour.

The one-day event, to be run in conjunction with The Webinar Vet, will feature informative sessions and engaging Q&As focussing on an array of topics, including:

  • how cats learn
  • how cats communicate
  • a discussion panel on the future of cats and the biggest welfare issues they face.

“Cats have subtle ways of communicating and are therefore renowned for being hard to read,” said Daniel Cummings, Cats Protection’s behaviour officer. “We’re constantly being asked why they behave in the way they do and it’s hard to find all this information in one place which is why we wanted to hold an affordable and accessible event for anyone interested in understanding feline behaviour.”

According to the charity, the conference is ideal for veterinary professionals and everyone working in the animal welfare sector - as well as budding cat behaviourists. It is also suitable for those whose work focuses on cats indirectly, including those studying for a relevant qualification.

The day will count as six hours of Continuing Professional Development, with speakers including a range of cat behaviour experts such as welfare advocate Sarah Ellis, co-author of ‘The Trainable Cat’.

The event starts at 9.30 am on 11 September, and the content will be available for another six months after the event for no extra fee. Tickets can be purchased at www.cats.org.uk/feline-behaviour-conference at a cost of £50 plus VAT. 

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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.