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Cat’s ‘crispy’ ears prompt skin cancer warning
Phillip's sun-damaged ears revealed pre-cancerous cells, making the surgery a life-saving decision.

Charity highlights the dangers of sun exposure. 

National feline charity Cats Protection has issued a warning after an elderly cat underwent ear amputation due to sun-induced cancer.

Thirteen-year-old Phillip was brought into the care of Cats Protection Kent after he was found living on the streets of Bredhurst.

Stacey Gausten, deputy manager at the Bredhurst centre, said: “Phillip’s ears were curly crispy. This is a tell-tale sign of sun damage and can indicate skin cancer, so our vet determined that both ears would need to be removed as a precaution.

“The biopsy confirmed our fears. Phillip’s ears had been sun damaged and revealed pre-cancerous cells, making the surgery a life-saving decision.”

The charity said the case highlights the dangers of sun exposure for cats, particularly with white fur on their ears.

"Just like humans, cats can suffer from sun damage, including the risk of cancer,’ Stacey warned. 

"White cats, or cats with white ears and noses, are particularly vulnerable. If possible, keep them indoors during the hottest part of the day, provide plenty of shade in your garden, and talk to your vet about cat-safe sunscreen which can be gently rubbed on their ears."

She added that it was ‘obvious’ Phillip had been living outside for some time before coming into the charity’s care.

“Phillip has had a hard life but he’s coped with everything and his spirit is strong. He is a friendly and independent boy who isn’t shy about telling you when he’s had enough fuss".

Image (C) Cats Protection.

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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.