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RSPCA voices concern about rabbits
The majority of rabbits are badly cared for

A recent report by the RSPCA has suggested that three in four of the UK's pet rabbits are badly cared for, and are commonly misunderstood by their owners.

Rabbits are the third most popular pet in the UK and some two million are kept as pets across the country, but the report suggests that many owners unwittingly do not adequately provide for their rabbits, due to common misconceptions about the correct diet and housing.

Vets and rabbit specialists fear that many rabbits are fed a bad diet, kept in too-small hutches and are not given frequent health checks.

Vet Matt Brash, speaking in support of Rabbit Awareness Week, said: "We know that many owners are very attentive to their rabbits but don't always fully understand their complex needs. Along with diet, behaviour, environment, companionship and healthcare, regular vaccinations for rabbits are a necessity for them to live long, happy and healthy lives."

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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. 

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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.