https://www.slu.se/en/about-slu/organisation/faculties/faculty-of-veterinary-medicine-and-animal-science/about-us/slu-committee-for-global-animal-diseases/global-news/ Antimicrobial resistance is often associated with antibiotic use in humans and animals. A new group within the Interdisciplinary Academy (IDA) at SLU is taking a broader One Health perspective to explore what antimicrobial resistance means for humans, animals, plants and the environment. https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/11/new-perspectives-on-one-health/ https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/11/new-perspectives-on-one-health/ Wed, 04 Nov 2026 06:34:51 +0100 Bats have long had an undeservedly sinister reputation – despite playing an important role in our ecosystems. Yet researchers still know very little about which viruses Swedish bats carry. A new research project now aims to map them, from sampling in the night to experiments in the laboratory. https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/10/secrets-of-the-night--what-lies-hidden-in-swedens-bats/ https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/10/secrets-of-the-night--what-lies-hidden-in-swedens-bats/ Sat, 31 Oct 2026 10:32:28 +0100 Larger protein yields and a more efficient purification method bring SLU’s artificial spider silk research closer to textiles. With H&M Foundation support, researchers are now working towards yarn that can be produced efficiently and work in practice. https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/10/award-winning-spider-silk-research-takes-the-next-step-towards-textiles/ https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/10/award-winning-spider-silk-research-takes-the-next-step-towards-textiles/ Thu, 22 Oct 2026 06:00:00 +0100 Antibiotic use in Swedish pig production is generally very low. Yet researchers at SLU have found antibiotic resistance genes in pig housing – including genes conferring resistance to antibiotics that the pigs had not even received, according to a new study. https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/09/antibiotics-for-pigs/ https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/09/antibiotics-for-pigs/ Wed, 21 Oct 2026 16:23:45 +0100 For Jens Häggström and Ingrid Ljungvall, recipients of the 2026 Award for Outstanding Research in Veterinary Medicine, research begins with their animal patients. They reflect on discoveries that changed veterinary cardiology, nearly 20 years of collaboration and the questions that drive them. https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/09/from-patient-encounters-to-breakthroughs-in-veterinary-cardiology/ https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/09/from-patient-encounters-to-breakthroughs-in-veterinary-cardiology/ Mon, 05 Oct 2026 09:00:00 +0100 Painful, persistent and pervasive; the equine disease that can “strangle” horses is found worldwide. After many years of research, a Swedish vaccine became available. Now, five years later, the research begins anew with the aim to deeper understand: how does the protection we offer our horses work? https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/09/protecting-horses-against-stranglesfrom-vaccine-details-to-attitudes-and-infection-control-in-practical-terms/ https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/09/protecting-horses-against-stranglesfrom-vaccine-details-to-attitudes-and-infection-control-in-practical-terms/ Sun, 27 Sep 2026 11:25:45 +0100 SLU professors Jens Häggström and Ingrid Ljungvall have received the 2026 Award for Outstanding Research in Veterinary Medicine for their research on heart disease in dogs and cats. https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/09/the-2026-award-for-outstanding-research-in-veterinary-medicine/ https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/09/the-2026-award-for-outstanding-research-in-veterinary-medicine/ Tue, 08 Sep 2026 08:01:00 +0100 Cats are said to have nine lives, but that is not always the case. Two out of ten kittens die in the first weeks of life – often without an explanation. Researchers are looking for answers to why life ends so early for some kittens, and how more of them can get the chance to live a full feline life. https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/08/a-matter-of-life-and-death-for-kittens--research-for-a-full-feline-life/ https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/08/a-matter-of-life-and-death-for-kittens--research-for-a-full-feline-life/ Sun, 16 Aug 2026 18:19:26 +0100 Humans have lived alongside cattle for thousands of years, yet we still know relatively little about how they perceive their sensory world. Researchers at SLU have now published the most comprehensive review to date of existing knowledge on the sensory world of cattle. https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/07/sa-uppfattar-notkreatur-sin-omgivning/ https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/07/sa-uppfattar-notkreatur-sin-omgivning/ Fri, 10 Jul 2026 13:23:26 +0100 The VH Faculty's (Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science) docent lectures for the spring semester were held on 26 May. Recordings of the lectures are now available on SLU Play until 8 July. https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/06/vh-docent-lectures/ https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/06/vh-docent-lectures/ Wed, 17 Jun 2026 16:14:38 +0100 Inbreeding between humans is taboo in large parts of the world, but we often view it differently when it comes to animals. While it has helped shape animal breeds, it can also impair health, fertility and performance. How do we avoid crossing the dangerous line to inbreeding depression? https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/06/inbreeding-in-animals--risk-tool-or-inevitability/ https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/06/inbreeding-in-animals--risk-tool-or-inevitability/ Mon, 15 Jun 2026 14:06:56 +0100 The Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU) is launching Stenbeck One Health Lab, a new initiative to strengthen the link between clinical practice, research and education in comparative medicine. Funded by three Stenbeck family foundations, the lab is part of SLU’s work within One Health. https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/06/slu-launches-stenbeck-one-health-lab-to-connect-clinical-expertise-with-research/ https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/06/slu-launches-stenbeck-one-health-lab-to-connect-clinical-expertise-with-research/ Tue, 09 Jun 2026 10:15:01 +0100 Research is currently being conducted into the possibility of bringing extinct animal species back to life. How? Well, by first successfully reintroducing already domesticated animals into the wild. Could this be a way to correct human mistakes and help our planet? That remains to be seen. https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/05/mission-reviving-extinct-species-and-improving-the-welfare-of-swedish-chickens/ https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/05/mission-reviving-extinct-species-and-improving-the-welfare-of-swedish-chickens/ Sun, 10 May 2026 20:06:32 +0100 An era comes to an end as more bacteria develop resistance to antibiotics and the certainty that we can cure diseases slowly fades. The “silent pandemic” is sweeping the globe, and the solution now depends on us rethinking our approach together—for the sake of people, animals, and nature as one. https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/03/circle-of-life---all-together-through-the-silent-pandemic/ https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/03/circle-of-life---all-together-through-the-silent-pandemic/ Fri, 20 Mar 2026 15:23:54 +0100 Have you ever considered that food waste disposed incorrectly later in the trash chain can attract wild animals – and contribute to the spread of deadly diseases? This is believed to have happened when African swine fever was suddenly discovered in Sweden. How can we prevent history from repeating? https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/02/when-waste-becomes-a-carrier-of-disease-finding-solutions-to-protect-swedens-pigs-and-food-production/ https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/02/when-waste-becomes-a-carrier-of-disease-finding-solutions-to-protect-swedens-pigs-and-food-production/ Fri, 13 Feb 2026 14:43:12 +0100 The Interdisciplinary Academy (IDA) is a programme where SLU researchers are offered the opportunity to collaborate across disciplinary boundaries on complex issues in the broad field of sustainable transition. https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/01/call-for-ida/ https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/01/call-for-ida/ Mon, 19 Jan 2026 13:07:50 +0100 The cornea is the eye’s window to the world and its first line of defence. Ingeniously built but highly vulnerable, it requires swift and accurate treatment when injured. Researchers in Sweden are now working to improve treatment of corneal ulcers in our most cherished animal species. https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/01/The-Eyes-Fragile-Window-Research-for-rapid-and-reliable-treatment-of-corneal-ulcers-in-animals/ https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/01/The-Eyes-Fragile-Window-Research-for-rapid-and-reliable-treatment-of-corneal-ulcers-in-animals/ Thu, 01 Jan 2026 12:55:08 +0100 Over the years, cats have gone from “anonymous” barn animals to beloved family members. Today, they are our most common pets and—like humans—cats are living longer than ever. Knowledge about age-related diseases is therefore increasingly important, not only for a long life, but a good one. https://www.slu.se/en/news/2025/12/on-the-road-to-a-better-life-for-cats--where-is-todays-osteoarthritis-research-heading/ https://www.slu.se/en/news/2025/12/on-the-road-to-a-better-life-for-cats--where-is-todays-osteoarthritis-research-heading/ Fri, 12 Dec 2025 12:31:50 +0100 Welcome to nominate outstanding researchers who have made significant contributions to animal welfare! The nomination period for The Award for Outstanding Research in Veterinary Medicine 2026 is open and the last day to nominate is February 26, 2026. https://www.slu.se/en/news/2025/12/now-open-nominations-for-the-award-for-outstanding-research-in-veterinary-medicine-2026/ https://www.slu.se/en/news/2025/12/now-open-nominations-for-the-award-for-outstanding-research-in-veterinary-medicine-2026/ Mon, 08 Dec 2025 07:54:00 +0100 From now on and for about three weeks to come, the autumn docent lectures are available on SLU Play. https://www.slu.se/en/news/2025/12/docent-lectures-vh-slu-play/ https://www.slu.se/en/news/2025/12/docent-lectures-vh-slu-play/ Thu, 04 Dec 2025 13:29:05 +0100 Under solemn and celebratory circumstances, the newly established Award for Outstanding Research in Veterinary Medicine was presented on 26 November 2025. The award highlights Nordic research that has made a significant contribution to improving animal health and welfare. https://www.slu.se/en/news/2025/11/Veterinary-Medicine-Celebrated-26-nov/ https://www.slu.se/en/news/2025/11/Veterinary-Medicine-Celebrated-26-nov/ Thu, 27 Nov 2025 10:10:36 +0100 Just like humans, horses can move unevenly, limping, when in pain. But when studies show that as many as 70% of Swedish horses in training move asymmetrically, the question arises as to whether there may be other causes. Important questions for our society, ethics, and for the horses. https://www.slu.se/en/news/2025/11/when-perfect-symmetry-is-not-a-given--what-can-cause-asymmetry-in-horses-if-pain-is-not-the-cause/ https://www.slu.se/en/news/2025/11/when-perfect-symmetry-is-not-a-given--what-can-cause-asymmetry-in-horses-if-pain-is-not-the-cause/ Mon, 03 Nov 2025 11:40:02 +0100 For over 40 years, Professor Henrik Elvang Jensen has shaped the field of veterinary pathology internationally – developing new diagnostic methods, changing clinical practices, and creating guidelines now used worldwide. https://www.slu.se/en/news/2025/10/award-winning-professor-ive-always-wanted-to-leave-my-mark-on-the-field/ https://www.slu.se/en/news/2025/10/award-winning-professor-ive-always-wanted-to-leave-my-mark-on-the-field/ Wed, 08 Oct 2025 13:16:07 +0100 Carefully choosing a dog breed can give future owners a sense of security in knowing its typical appearance, needs, and temperament. But new research highlights that differences between individuals within the same breed can be just as significant—something many may not be aware of. https://www.slu.se/en/news/2025/10/The-breed-does-not-determine-the-dog-significant-differences-in-mentality-both-between-and-within-breeds/ https://www.slu.se/en/news/2025/10/The-breed-does-not-determine-the-dog-significant-differences-in-mentality-both-between-and-within-breeds/ Thu, 02 Oct 2025 09:32:34 +0100 On Monday, September 22, over a hundred guests gathered at SLU Campus Ultuna to participate in the inauguration of Peter Hernqvist's place in front of the Veterinary Medical and Animal Science Center (VHC), which now officially bears the name of the founder of Sweden's first veterinary education. https://www.slu.se/en/news/2025/09/linnaeus-disciple-peter-hernqvist-was-honored-with-a-place-of-his-own/ https://www.slu.se/en/news/2025/09/linnaeus-disciple-peter-hernqvist-was-honored-with-a-place-of-his-own/ Wed, 24 Sep 2025 11:54:54 +0100 Professor Henrik Elvang Jensen, Danish veterinarian and professor of veterinary pathology, has been awarded the 2025 Award for Outstanding Research in Veterinary Medicine. The award is presented by SLU in collaboration with Agria. https://www.slu.se/en/news/2025/09/professor-henrik-elvang-jensen-awarded-the-2025-award-for-outstanding-research-in-veterinary-medicine/ https://www.slu.se/en/news/2025/09/professor-henrik-elvang-jensen-awarded-the-2025-award-for-outstanding-research-in-veterinary-medicine/ Thu, 04 Sep 2025 10:01:31 +0100 For thousands of years, humans have been controlling the breeding of dogs, horses and farm animals. Despite the benefits, this has led to unexpectedly high risks for the animals. With knowledge from research, now might be the time to re-evaluate breeding decisions. https://www.slu.se/en/news/2025/09/the-price-of-perfection-opting-out-of-variety---a-danger-to-animal-immunity-and-survival/ https://www.slu.se/en/news/2025/09/the-price-of-perfection-opting-out-of-variety---a-danger-to-animal-immunity-and-survival/ Tue, 02 Sep 2025 09:42:43 +0100 To ensure the welfare of dairy cows in Sweden there is legislation and controls on dairy farms. But are today's animal welfare controls really optimally designed to understand and monitor the physical and mental well-being of cows? These are questions asked by research - that have now been answered. https://www.slu.se/en/news/2025/08/animal-welfare-controls---but-how-progress-towards-better-welfare-for-swedish-dairy-cows/ https://www.slu.se/en/news/2025/08/animal-welfare-controls---but-how-progress-towards-better-welfare-for-swedish-dairy-cows/ Fri, 01 Aug 2025 11:41:41 +0100 Can cows drink salt water? And do they really need as large amounts of water as often as is currently required by law? To that, science is now seeking answers: In a world where fresh water scarcity is becoming increasingly apparent, it may become a matter of priority between animals and humans. https://www.slu.se/en/news/2024/01/can-cows-drink-salt-water---and-survive-without-free-water-supply-for-sustainable-food-production-in-times-of-water-scarcity/ https://www.slu.se/en/news/2024/01/can-cows-drink-salt-water---and-survive-without-free-water-supply-for-sustainable-food-production-in-times-of-water-scarcity/ Mon, 28 Jul 2025 15:36:48 +0100 Many people want to drink cow's milk, but fewer think about what happens to the calves that are raised just to make the cows produce milk. A more sustainable approach is now being explored that may point the way to a society where we work smarter instead of harder and increase our self-sufficiency. https://www.slu.se/en/news/2025/07/more-meat-on-the-bone/ https://www.slu.se/en/news/2025/07/more-meat-on-the-bone/ Tue, 01 Jul 2025 13:07:49 +0100 For many years, the tiny Icelandic horse, rarely bigger than a pony, has been considered fully capable of carrying adult humans. But are they really? And what determines how much a horse can carry? This is now investigated by PhD student Denise Söderroos in a project about weight-bearing capacity https://www.slu.se/en/news/2025/06/myth-or-master-the-weight-bearing-capacity-of-the-icelandic-horse/ https://www.slu.se/en/news/2025/06/myth-or-master-the-weight-bearing-capacity-of-the-icelandic-horse/ Tue, 17 Jun 2025 17:07:27 +0100 Bacteria are present in all living bodies - human and animal alike. But why do certain bacteria sometimes cause harm and other times not? That’s what veterinarian and PhD student Homayoon Davam is investigating in a project focused on poultry and the well-known bacterium Escherichia coli. https://www.slu.se/en/news/2025/05/vital-or-deadly-but-when-bacterial-knowledge-benefits-farmers-society-and-poultry/ https://www.slu.se/en/news/2025/05/vital-or-deadly-but-when-bacterial-knowledge-benefits-farmers-society-and-poultry/ Thu, 12 Jun 2025 08:35:07 +0100 Researchers are using AI to bridge the communication gap between horse and human. Combining 3D motion capture and machine learning, a new modeling system would equip veterinarians with a powerful visual tool for interpreting equine body language. https://www.slu.se/en/news/2025/04/ai-helps-decode-horse-body-language-for-better-veterinary-care/ https://www.slu.se/en/news/2025/04/ai-helps-decode-horse-body-language-for-better-veterinary-care/ Thu, 10 Apr 2025 18:04:00 +0100 Animal welfare is on the agenda: cows included. But when increasingly more farmers are changing the way their animals are held one disease in particular has escalated - a cocktail of bacteria that spreads rapidly and at ground level, between the hooves. And the big challenge is detecting it in time. https://www.slu.se/en/news/2025/01/happy-feet-better-animal-welfare-for-cows-and-increased-food-production-combined/ https://www.slu.se/en/news/2025/01/happy-feet-better-animal-welfare-for-cows-and-increased-food-production-combined/ Wed, 01 Jan 2025 00:00:00 +0100