sheep
Ragwort Toxicity in Cattle: A Recent Case Highlights the Importance of Prevention
A recent postmortem investigation through the Dumfries PM room has highlighted the ongoing risk that ragwort poses to cattle, particularly when exposure goes unnoticed until clinical disease develops.…
- SRUC Veterinary Services
- 21/07/2026
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PSGHS: Biosecurity at Shows and Sales
A reminder to PSGHS members to practice good biosecurity when attending shows and sales with MV/CAE accredited stock this summer.…
- SRUC Veterinary Services
- 21/07/2026
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Ovine Abortion in Scotland: 2025 Review and Key Considerations for 2026
A review of Scotland’s 2025 ovine abortion data highlights the continued prevalance of EAE and toxoplasmosis, alongside a marked resurgence of Schmallenberg virus, underscoring the importance of early diagnosis and targeted sampling as we enter the 2026 lambing season.…
- SRUC Veterinary Services
- 25/02/2026
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Practical Pointers When Investigating Abortions in Cattle and Sheep
Abortion investigations in cattle and sheep can be frustrating, time-pressured, and often unrewarding if the wrong samples are collected — or none at all. When whole foetuses and placentas cannot be submitted, targeted sampling can still provide strong diagnostic value. Here is a practical guide to help maximise diagnostic yield while managing client expectations and lab workflow.…
- SRUC Veterinary Services
- 30/01/2026
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Low Energy Silage in 2025: What It Means for Herd and Flock Performance
Results from over 1,000 new-season silage samples across Scotland are highlighting a significant nutritional challenge for the year ahead. Data compiled by SAC Consulting from 1,022 silage submissions in 2025 shows a widespread reduction in metabolisable energy (ME), with important implications for both cattle and sheep enterprises.…
- SRUC Veterinary Services
- 30/01/2026
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Look Out for Rickets in 2026
As we move into the early months of the year, it’s important to keep an eye out for rickets in lambs and hoggs. This condition, while not new, can catch flocks off guard—especially under certain management and nutritional circumstances.…
- SRUC Veterinary Services
- 07/01/2026
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Watch Your Hedges and Ditches: The Hidden Danger of Hemlock
A reminder to vets and livestock keepers to be vigilant for the signs of hemlock poisoning.…
- SRUC Veterinary Services
- 19/09/2025
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Safeguarding Flocks from EAE: Why Vigilance and Accreditation Matter
A reminder of the risks of EAE and how to prevent introducing it to your flock.…
- SRUC Veterinary Services
- 19/09/2025
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Increased Risk of Perennial Ryegrass Staggers this Autumn
There is an increased risk of perennial rygrass staggers this Aurumn as a result of fungal growth.…
- SRUC Veterinary Services
- 17/09/2025
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Schmallenberg update for SW Scotland
2023 saw evidence of significant spread of Schmallenberg through large areas of England and Wales with resultant impact on flock and herd fertility and the birth of deformed lambs and calves. Scotland remained largely unaffected with very limited evidence of exposure through antibody testing or clinical disease seen. …
- SRUC Veterinary Services
- 09/01/2025
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Cases of interest
As 2024 draws to a close it is not long now before we pass the shortest day and move into 2025, and we wish you all some time off to enjoy at least part of the festive season. Please note that the laboratory in Edinburgh is closed on the 25th & 26th December and the 1st & 2nd of January.…
- SRUC Veterinary Services
- 17/12/2024
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Ruminal acidosis
At this time of year, it is not uncommon to see cases of ruminal acidosis, this is often due to dietary changes associated with reduced grazing or housing.…
- SRUC Veterinary Services
- 22/11/2024
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