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Fifty cats euthanised after rabies case
cat close up
The owner could not prove any of the 50 cats had been rabies vaccinated.
Delaware health officials confirm rabies in kitten

A colony of more than 50 cats have been euthanised in Delaware after a four-week-old kitten was confirmed to have rabies.

The owner of the cats could provide "no reliable information" to prove any of the other animals had received rabies vaccinations, according to Delaware's Division of Public Health (DPH).

The kitten tested positive on November 10 and all but one of its litter mates died of similar symptoms. Although the litter had been confined to a private residence, it is suspected they were infected by adult cats that spent time both indoors and outdoors.

All 50 cats were surrendered to Delaware Animal Care and Control by the owner.

No bites have been reported and all those who were potentially exposed - including the owner and staff at the veterinary clinic - have been referred for post-exposure prophylaxis.

Rabies is endemic in Delaware and residents are advised to keep their pets' rabies vaccinations up to date and to avoid wild or unfamiliar animals. Of 126 animals tested since January 2014, eight including the kitten tested positive. It is suspected there may be many more cases in wild animals.

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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.