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Seventh cat dies from antifreeze poisoning
cat
Scottish SPCA is "extremely concerned" by the number of deaths in such a small area.
Scottish SPCA reports seven deaths in one village

A seventh cat has died due to antifreeze poisoning in the village of Culloden in Inverness, the Scottish SPCA has warned.

Four-year-old Biffy returned to his home in Walker Crescent on May 1, suffering symptoms consistent with poisoning. His condition was so severe that vets sadly had to euthanise him.

Biffy's case follows the deaths of three cats from nearby Hazel Avenue, which occurred from April 2013 to January this year. A further three cats from Walker Crescent died from antifreeze poisoning in March 2012.

The Scottish SPCA is "extremely concerned" by the number of cats dying from antifreeze poisoning in such a small area.

Senior inspector Andy Brown said: "One man from Hazel Avenue has now lost three cats and has even considered moving home because of this."

The source of the poison is unknown and inspectors say they are unable to determine whether the deaths are accidental or somebody is deliberately causing the cats harm.

Mr Brown said: "Either way, it is clear there is a source somewhere in the area close to Walker Crescent and Hazel Avenue."

The SPCA is urging owners to be aware of the dangers and seek veterinary attention straight away if they suspect poisoning. People are also being asked to ensure roaming cats do not have access to antifreeze they may be storing in a garage or shed.

Anyone with any information relating to these incidents is asked to contact the 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.