FAYETTEVILLE, N.C. – The Cumberland County Animal Services has halted all cat adoptions until Nov. 1 due to a feline panleukopenia virus (FPV) exposure.
Two kittens tested positive in isolated incidents late last week. A third kitten tested positive for FPV in the community kitten room on Monday, Oct. 11, and another tested positive 48 hours later in a separate room. The situation has not risen to the level of a widespread outbreak. Staff are closely monitoring the cats at the shelter and taking special cleaning and disease transmission precautions.
Out of an abundance of caution, Animal Services has halted all cat adoptions and intake of felines until Nov. 1 to prevent any additional spreading of the virus. Only cats or kittens that have bitten someone or are themselves seriously sick or injured should be brought in. No owner surrender or stray cats can enter the shelter until normal operations resume.
Exposed facilities need to quarantine felines for a minimum of 14 days due to the incubation period for the virus.
“By taking immediate precautions now, we hope to limit the spread of the virus and keep the number of animals affected very low,” said Animal Services Director Elaine Smith.
Animal Services is notifitying owners of recently adopted kittens. Any owners with kittens that are positive with FPV will be given the option to pick up a new kitten after Nov. 1 or a refund for the adoption fee.
This virus does not spread to humans or dogs. Dog adoptions will continue as normal.
The mission of the Cumberland County Animal Services Department is to protect our citizens by active enforcement of state and local laws, provide for the humane sheltering and outcome of stray and unwanted animals, and promote responsible pet ownership. The primary objective of Animal Services employees is to provide excellent service to the citizens while dedicating themselves to improving the welfare of animals and humans.
For more information, visit the Animal Services department page or their Facebook page.