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Search for nation's favourite cats gets underway
Owners are invited to nominate their cats in one of four categories.

The National Cat Awards 2025 celebrates exceptional felines.

The search for the nation's favourite cats is about to get underway, highlighting stories of courage, devotion and companionship that showcase the unique role felines have in our lives.

The National Cat Awards 2025 kickstarts on 15 January, with owners invited to nominate their pets in one of four categories: Family Cats, Incredible Cats, Senior Cats, and Connected Cats. Colleagues or owners can also put forward a vet who has gone above and beyond in providing care for a cat in the 'Vet of the Year' category.

Supported by a host of feline-loving celebrities, this annual celebration, organised by Cats Protection, aims to showcase the UK's most incredible cats - from those providing comfort in tough times to felines with an active role in their communities.

Catherine Cottrell, director of Cats Protection, said: “Cats are one of the nation’s favourite pets, and bring fun, comfort and companionship to millions of people. They live alongside us in all sorts of ways, from the sociable cat who greets all the neighbours to the homely lap-cat on our sofa. There are the super-friendly cats who thrive in the company of busy workplaces, or within their communities, and even those solitary, shy cats who prefer to keep their distance can bring us great joy.

“The National Cat Awards is all about celebrating every cat, and what they bring to our lives. We’re looking forward to sharing some amazing, heart-warming and inspirational stories to showcase the special role cats have in our lives.”

A public vote will decide the winners of each category, while a panel of judges will decide on 'Vet of the Year'. The winners will be announced during a ceremony in London later this year.

Cat of the Year 2025 will be chosen from the four category winners. Last year's winner was Marley, who helps women who have been trafficked, enslaved or exploited in London. 

Image (C) Shutterstock.

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Vets launch new podcast for pet owners

News Story 1
 Two independent vets have launched a podcast to help owners strengthen their bond with pets. Dr Maggie Roberts and Dr Vanessa Howie, who have worked in both veterinary practice and major charities, are keen to use their experience to enable people to give pets a better life.

The venture, called Vets Talking Pets, provides advice and information on a range of topics, including how to select a suitable pet, where to obtain them and how to get the best out of your vet. Maggie and Vanessa will also discuss sensitive subjects, including end-of-life care, raw food diets and the cost of veterinary care.

The podcast can be found on all the usual podcast sites, including Podbean, Apple, Amazon Music and YouTube. 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
VMD issues guidance on AVM-GSL packaging

The Veterinary Medicines Directorate (VMD) has shared advice on its requirements for medicines considered AVM-GSL.

The guidance explains the information that should be on the outer package, and sets out the typical maximum pack size for an AVM-GSL product. It also describes the user-friendly language, structure and phrases required on packaging and product leaflets.

AVM-GSL products do not require discussion between the purchaser and a veterinary professional. This means that clear product information is needed to support sales choices.

The information will be useful for submitting new products to the AVM-GSL category and lowering the distribution category of products from NFA-VPS to AVM-GSL.

The VMD's guidance can be accessed here.