Guilford County Animal Services (GCAS) is alerting residents of confirmed cases of Feline panleukopenia virus (FPV) at the Guilford County Animal Resource Center. The virus was detected in nine cats brought into the animal shelter from cats in the Greensboro areas, including Spry Street, Darden Road, and Chadford Place.
GCAS will not limit the intake of cats at this point. GCAS currently has four of six intake halls under quarantine for the next two-week period.
To prevent the spread of the virus, GCAS is encouraging residents to hold onto any stray cats they find until the end of quarantine period. If residents need to bring in a healthy cat to the shelter, GCAS is encouraging residents to participate in the “Stray to Foster” program. The program allows the animal shelter to intake the cats or kittens while the finder takes them home and fosters them through the 72-hour stray hold period. GCAS provides supplies for residents who are willing to foster stray pets through their stray holds.
Residents can apply for the “Stray to Foster” program online. For more information visit GuilfordCountyNC.gov/AnimalServices.
About Feline Panleukopenia:
Feline panleukopenia is a highly contagious viral infectious disease in cats. FPV can affect kittens and unvaccinated cats, causing the infected animal to lose all defenses against any viruses or bacteria. If not appropriately diagnosed and treated, the virus can be fatal. The incubation period for the virus is 14 days.
Most cats infected with FPV may show no symptoms at all. Cats with FPV that become ill may experience the following symptoms: vomiting, diarrhea, fever, depression, lethargy, painful abdomen, lack of appetite, dehydration, or sudden death.
FPV can be spread when a cat ingests viral material that is present in feces, urine, saliva, or vomit. The spread can occur through cats using the same litterbox or sharing the same living space.
Vaccination is the best method to prevent feline panleukopenia virus. Consult with a veterinarian to discuss if your cat is eligible for vaccination.