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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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FIVP launches CMA remedies survey

News Story 1
 FIVP has shared a survey, inviting those working in independent practice to share their views on the CMA's proposed remedies.

The Impact Assessment will help inform the group's response to the CMA, as it prepares to submit further evidence to the Inquiry Group. FIVP will also be attending a hearing in November.

Data will be anonymised and used solely for FIVP's response to the CMA. The survey will close on Friday, 31 October 2025. 

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News Shorts
CMA to host webinar exploring provisional decisions

The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) is to host a webinar for veterinary professionals to explain the details of its provisional decisions, released on 15 October 2025.

The webinar will take place on Wednesday, 29 October 2025 from 1.00pm to 2.00pm.

Officials will discuss the changes which those in practice may need to make if the provisional remedies go ahead. They will also share what happens next with the investigation.

The CMA will be answering questions from the main parties of the investigation, as well as other questions submitted ahead of the webinar.

Attendees can register here before Wednesday, 29 October at 11am. Questions must be submitted before 10am on 27 October.

A recording of the webinar will be accessible after the event.