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Rabbits on a museli-style diet
Study reveals related health problems

Rabbits that eat museli-style food are more likely to suffer dental and digestive health problems, according to a recent study.

Research by the University of Edinburgh has suggested that museli brings on slower gut motility in rabbits and enables them to selectively feed – thereby often excluding vital nutrients from their diet.

As a result, rabbits were found to not be eating all their caecotrophs (vitamin-rich droppings) and were put at high risk of gut stasis.

Furthermore, the rabbits who were fed museli ate less hay, which can lead to abnormal teeth growth and dental disease, as well as reduced water intake that can cause urinary tract problems.

Anna Meredeth, of the university's Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, said: "The findings of this research have significant implications for the feeding of the nation's rabbits.

"Vets have suspected for a number of years that feeding museli-style foods could lead to health issues in rabbits, and now we have to proof to substantiate that."

With Rabbit Awareness Week (RAW) fast approaching (May 4-12), a mass education programme is being prepared to make owners aware of how muesli can affect rabbit health.

RAW will also see various veterinary practices and pet shops take part, with rabbit-related events being held nationwide, as well as free rabbit health checks in some areas.

Practices and retailers that would like to be involved with RAW can sign up here.

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

Webinar to explore history of KC breed registers

News Story 1
 A free webinar exploring the development of the Kennel Club's registration system and the evolution of closed breed registers has been announced.

Hosted by Dr Alison Skipper, veterinary and research advisor at the Kennel Club, the webinar will delve into the development of the registry and how the changing landscape of scientific knowledge has shaped breeding practices. It will also look at what this means for the future of pedigree dogs.

The session will culminate with a look at The Kennel Club's ongoing and future engagement in this area, with a chance for attendees to put forward their thoughts and questions for discussion.

This event takes place on Microsoft Teams on Tuesday, 10 June at 7pm. To learn more, visit events.teams.microsoft.com  

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.