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Battersea issues plea as 'kitten season' ramps up
"We would urge anyone in need of help or guidance to contact us" - JoAnna Puzzo, Battersea.
Owners and finders of unwanted kittens urged to contact rescue centres.

Finders and owners of unwanted kittens and pregnant cats during 'kitten season' are being urged to take them to rescue centres where they can be properly cared for.

JoAnna Puzzo from Battersea said the charity often sees pregnant cats and litters in the summer months, and wants people to know that the charity can take care of those kittens if they have nowhere else to go.

“We would urge anyone in need of help or guidance to contact us and we’ll be more than happy to help in any way we can,” she said. “There’s never any judgement – if you can’t care for them, bringing them to a rescue like Battersea is the most responsible decision.”

Kitten season lasts from April through to late autumn, during which animal charities tend to receive an influx of pregnant cats and kittens. Among Battersea's most recent arrivals include Locky, who was abandoned by his mum at a few days old, and Etna, who decided to break into a stranger's home to give birth.

The charity urges anyone who might spot a litter of kittens outside to monitor them and see if the mother returns. Similarly, finders of abandoned kittens are encouraged to check around the area to ensure the mother cat is a stray.

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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.