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Black cats take three times longer to rehome
Moomin, who's been in the care of RSPCA Danaher Animal Home for more than 30 days, is among the cats looking for a new home.
Statistics released to coincide with Black Cat Appreciation Day.

The RSPCA has revealed that it can take three times longer to rehome black cats compared to other cats.

In figures released for Black Cat Appreciation Day (17 August), the charity revealed that it takes an average of 29 days to rehome a black cat. In comparison, it only takes an average of nine days for a grey tabby cat to find a new home.

Dominika Jagoda, RSPCA pet welfare expert, said: “Whether people consider them to be unlucky or think they don’t look good in photos, the truth is that black cats won’t bring you bad luck - but they do need forever homes! The colour of an animal’s fur makes no difference to how much love they have to give.”

Image © RSPCA

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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.