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Botulism outbreak causes cattle deaths
cow
AHVLA is notified about 20 cases of botulism in the UK each year.
AHVLA is investigating the incident in Carmarthenshire

A number of cows are said to have died following an outbreak of botulism at a farm in Carmarthenshire.

The Animal Health and Veterinary Laboratories Agency (AHVLA) said it is currently investigating the incident.

A spokesperson said: "Analysis has confirmed that the likely source of botulinum toxin, the cause of botulism, was from a decaying animal carcase present in the grass silage being fed."

BBC news has reported that more than 70 cows have died as a result of the outbreak.

AHVLA said it is notified of 20 incidents of botulism in the UK each year. However, as botulism is not a notifiable disease, the actual figure is likely to be higher.

Botulism is usually caused by animals coming into contact with the litter of broiler chickens, according to AHVLA. This litter is brought onto farmland as a source of fertiliser.

Farmers are advised to securely store litter well away from livestock and to block access to birds and other scavengers.

It is illegal to use poultry litter as bedding material for other livestock. In addition, litter containing visible carcase material must not be used as fertiliser.

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RUMA CA&E extends survey deadline

News Story 1
 RUMA CA&E has extended the deadline for its online survey into vaccine availability.

Vets, SQPs, retailers and wholesalers will now have until Friday, 26 September at 5pm to submit their response.

The survey aims to further understanding into the vaccine supply challenges faced by the sector. It will also consider the short and long term impacts of disruption issues.

Insights are anonymous, and will be shared with industry stakeholders and government bodies.

The survey can be accessed here. 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
BSAVA publishes Guide to Nutrition in Small Animal Practice

The BSAVA has added a small animal nutrition advice booklet to its series of BSAVA guides.

The BSAVA Guide to Nutrition in Small Animal Practice offers a resource for veterinary professionals to provide appropriate nutrition for animals. As well as maintaining the wellbeing of healthy pets, the guide explores how nutritional requirements change in times of illness and disease.

The guide is divided into five sections, which explore the importance of nutritional assessment; diet types; feeding at different life stages; feeding for specific situations; and feeding for specific diseases. Online resources are also in the BSAVA Library including client handouts and videos.

It is designed to be suitable for referencing, in-depth case planning and team training sessions.

The BSAVA Guide to Nutrition in Small Animal Practice can be purchased online from the BSAVA store.