Livestock News

The Welsh and Scottish governments confirmed that, because lower temperatures are expected to prevent midges from spreading the bluetongue virus, movement restrictions on ruminants and camelids have been eased.

With the global pushback on antibiotic use and the growing threat of antimicrobial resistance, proven non-antibiotic products are now more important than ever in livestock health, writes independent veterinary advisor for Provita, Dr Tom Barragry.

Claire Whittle, a veterinary surgeon and farmer from North Wales, has been named Dairy Industry Woman of the Year 2025.

Nick Allen, CEO of the British Meat Processors Association, has announced his retirement after more than 50 years of service to the farming community.

Farming industry representatives have urged the UK government to remain steadfast and not barter away greater market access to the US, as this would jeopardise the future of UK dairy farming businesses, which are already under pressure.

Farmers have been advised to take extra steps to support calves born this late summer and autumn, with prolonged hot weather expected to impact survival and performance. 

Farmers across England and Wales face a difficult late grazing season, with drought effects still evident. Conditions vary by region, leaving many producers making tough decisions on fodder supplies and livestock management, said Philip Cosgrave, Yara’s grassland specialist.

With breeding sales and autumn livestock movements approaching, AIMS and other industry members are raising concerns over what they call an “ad hoc approach” to Bluetongue control measures—policies they say are causing significant costs and disruption across the sector.

The GB Calf Strategy 2025–2030 has been launched, calling on the dairy-beef sector to ensure every calf is reared with care, purpose, and value.

The EFRA Committee has raised concerns over the “alarming amounts” of illegally imported meat and dairy products entering Great Britain, warning they pose a significant risk of spreading animal diseases that could threaten nation’s food security, farming, and the wider economy.

An investigation has been launched following suspected fatal botulism cases in cattle on farms in Essex, Northamptonshire and Shropshire.

Farmers have been advised to take extra steps to protect calves from Bovine Respiratory Disease (BRD) ahead of housing this winter. Experts warn that the risks are heightened this year, with record beef prices making animal health and performance more critical than ever.