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New rapid test for difficult-to-diagnose rabbit parasite
E.cuniculi is a microscopic parasite of the nervous system and kidneys that commonly affects rabbits.,
Horiba's POCKIT Central analyser can detect E.cuniculi in 85 minutes.

Horiba UK has launched a new rapid PCR test for domestic rabbits to detect E.cuniculi - a microsporidian parasite that is notoriously difficult to diagnose.

In a press release, the diagnostics firm said its new POCKIT Central analyser can deliver fast and accurate results within 85 minutes and supports better patient management by enabling faster treatment. 

E.cuniculi is a microscopic parasite of the nervous system and kidneys that commonly affects rabbits. Animals infected with the parasite may have paralysis, seizures, head tilt, renal insufficiency and ocular disorders. 

The new system promises to be user-friendly and can automate the PCR testing process for up to eight pathogens in a single run. 

HORIBA veterinary business manager Paul Lymer said: “We are pleased to offer the capability of PCR testing to all practitioners, with a simple process that does not require a separate area, specialist staff or facilities. With the continued addition of rapid assays such as E. cuniculi to its wide range of tests, POCKIT Central’s ‘sample in, result out’ technology enables veterinary teams to work more efficiently and enhance patient care.”

Further information is available at horiba.com

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Equine Disease Surveillance report released for Q4 2025

News Story 1
 The latest Equine Disease Surveillance report has been released, with details on equine disease from Q4 of 2025.

The report, produced by Equine Infectious Disease Surveillance, includes advice on rule changes for equine influenza vaccination.

Statistics and maps detail recent outbreaks of equine herpes virus, equine influenza, equine strangles and equine grass sickness. A series of laboratory reports provides data on virology, bacteriology, parasitology and toxicosis.

This issue also features a case study of orthoflavivus-associated neurological disease in a horse in the UK. 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
NSA webinar explores sheep tailing and castration

The National Sheep Association (NSA) is to host a free webinar on the castration and tail docking of lambs.

The webinar, 'Understanding the tailing and castration consultation: A guide for sheep farmers', will be hosted online on Monday, 2 March 2026 at 7.30pm.

It comes during a government consultation into the methods used for these procedures. Farmers are encouraged to engage before the consultation period closes on Monday, 9 March 2026.

The webinar offers clear and actionable guidance to support farmers to contribute meaningfully to the consultation and prepare for potential changes.

On the panel will be former SVS president Kate Hovers, farmer and vet Ann Van Eetvelt and SRUC professor in Animal Health and Veterinary Sciences Cathy Dwyer. Each panel member will utilise their own specialism and expertise to evaluate risks and outcomes to sheep farming.

Find out more about the webinar on the NSA website.