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Scottish SPCA appeal for information after cat poisoning
The most common cause of cat poisoning is antifreeze.
Pet owners urged to be vigilant

A Scottish animal welfare charity is appealing for information after a cat was poisoned in North Lanarkshire.

The Scottish SPCA was alerted by a concerned owner whose cat had been taken ill in Caldercruix, Airdrie. The organisation is now urging owners be on their guard when letting their pets outside.

“We are concerned as the cat owner believes there have been a number of incidents in the area,” commented SPCA inspector Jack Marshall.  “Should this be the case there is likely a source of poison somewhere in the area and we want pet owners to be aware of the potential danger.”

Mr Marshall added that the most common cause of cat poisoning is antifreeze (ethylene glycol). The liquid is usually colourless and odourless, but it has a sweet taste that appeals to dogs in particular but cats will also inject it.

“By the time symptoms occur, such as vomiting, lethargy and, in the latter stages, head shaking and coma, it is normally too late to treat,” Mr Marchall continued. “Pet owners in the area should be vigilant when letting their cats out of the house, and should supervise their animals where possible.”

Anyone with information is being urged to contact the Scottish SPCA animal helpline on 03000 999 999.

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Equine Disease Surveillance report released for Q4 2025

News Story 1
 The latest Equine Disease Surveillance report has been released, with details on equine disease from Q4 of 2025.

The report, produced by Equine Infectious Disease Surveillance, includes advice on rule changes for equine influenza vaccination.

Statistics and maps detail recent outbreaks of equine herpes virus, equine influenza, equine strangles and equine grass sickness. A series of laboratory reports provides data on virology, bacteriology, parasitology and toxicosis.

This issue also features a case study of orthoflavivus-associated neurological disease in a horse in the UK. 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
RCVS annual renewal fee for vets due

RCVS' annual renewal fee for veterinary surgeons is now due. Vets must pay their renewal fee before Wednesday, 1 April 2026.

This year's standard annual fee has increased to 431 from last year's 418. This is an approximately three per cent increase, as approved by RCVS Council and the Privy Council.

Tshidi Gardner, RCVS treasurer, said: "The small fee increase will be used to help deliver both our everyday activities and our new ambitious Strategic Plan, which includes aims such as achieving new legislation, reviewing the Codes of Professional Conduct and supporting guidance, and continuing to support the professions through activities such as the Mind Matters Initiative, RCVS Academy and career development."

A full breakdown of the new fees is on the RCVS website. Information about tax relief is available on the UK government website.