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Call for Early Neutering of Cats
Cats Protection urges the early neutering of cats.

Cats Protection is urging cat owners to have their pets neutered earlier to prevent unwanted litters of kittens, and have set up a register of vets prepared to carry out the procedure early on in a cat's life.

The charity has conducted research which indicates that 94% of cat owners do not realise that cats can fall pregnant at as young as four months.

Cats Protection says it spent £5.6 million in 2010 neutering over 176000 owned, stray and feral cats across the UK. Ian MacFarlane, neutering manager with the charity, said: "We are working with the veterinary profession and the public to encourage cat neutering around four months of age, which is a significant move away from the traditional six months."

He added: "Ensuring cats are neutered earlier will prevent those surprise litters of kittens that most owners are unprepared for - and then have to hand over to animal welfare organisations, perpetuating the unwanted cat problem. Early neutering is proven to be safe and effective and avoids many of the potential complications for neutering later in life."

Cats Protection has established a register of veterinary practices that are prepared to neuter cats early. Practices that would like to be added to the register can sign up here.

Become a member or log in to add this story to your CPD history

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.