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Research indicates cause of cat epilepsy
Links between cat and human epilepsy uncovered

Research indicating a possible cause of cat epilepsy and its links to human epilepsy has been published in the current issue of the Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine.

The research was conducted by Akos Pakozdy and colleagues from the University of Veterinary Medicine in Vienna, along with partners in Oxford and Budapest. As a result of their findings, the researchers believe an incorrectly channelled immune response to be the cause of the condition, which closely resembles the human form of epilepsy.

The causes of epilepsy remain only partially understood, though brain tumours, infections, inflammation of the brain or metabolic diseases have been implicated. Researchers in Vienna assert that based on their clinical experience, the most common symptoms of epilepsy found in cats are twitching facial muscles, a fixed stare, chewing motions and heavy dribbling.

This type of epilepsy, they assert in the published findings, is similar to human epilepsy - an inflammation of the brain, known as limbic encephalitis, that leads to epileptic seizures, often affecting the arm and facial muscles on one side of the body.

In the published findings it is explained that antibodies found in the blood of epileptic cats reacted to proteins in the cell membranes of nerve cells. It is suggested in the study that the immune system of epileptic cats was attacking components of ion channels that are responsible for nerve signal production. Thus the production of nerve signals was disrupted, resulting in an increased release of neurotransmitters. Researchers believe this leads directly to the symptoms of epilepsy.

Lead researcher Pakozdy said: "It is important cats with epilepsy are diagnosed early, so that the correct form of therapy can be started. We believe this will dramatically increase the chances of a successful treatment. It seems as though epileptic cats might benefit from treatment with immune preparations." 

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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.