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Call for Early Neutering of Cats
Cats Protection urges the early neutering of cats.

Cats Protection is urging cat owners to have their pets neutered earlier to prevent unwanted litters of kittens, and have set up a register of vets prepared to carry out the procedure early on in a cat's life.

The charity has conducted research which indicates that 94% of cat owners do not realise that cats can fall pregnant at as young as four months.

Cats Protection says it spent £5.6 million in 2010 neutering over 176000 owned, stray and feral cats across the UK. Ian MacFarlane, neutering manager with the charity, said: "We are working with the veterinary profession and the public to encourage cat neutering around four months of age, which is a significant move away from the traditional six months."

He added: "Ensuring cats are neutered earlier will prevent those surprise litters of kittens that most owners are unprepared for - and then have to hand over to animal welfare organisations, perpetuating the unwanted cat problem. Early neutering is proven to be safe and effective and avoids many of the potential complications for neutering later in life."

Cats Protection has established a register of veterinary practices that are prepared to neuter cats early. Practices that would like to be added to the register can sign up here.

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

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.