SASKATOON – The Saskatoon SPCA is on quarantine after cats entered the shelter in October with a disease that is highly contagious and lethal to unvaccinated felines.
The disease, panleukopenia, attacks the lining of a cat’s digestive tract, according to the animal shelter.
“The disease spreads through feces and body fluids,” said Patricia Cameron, the SPCA’s executive director.
Panleukopenia is not a threat to humans.
Cameron said the disease has taken the lives of cats in Saskatoon and that vaccination is the only way to protect against it.
“The vaccines are very effective and the best possible way to protect your pet,” Cameron added.
“Vaccinating your pet is a crucial way you can show your love for them.”
Cameron warned that ‘indoor cats’ were also at risk, since they could contract the disease if it’s brought inside a home on someone’s clothes or shoes. In a suitable environment, the disease can survive for up to a year.
“We urge all cat owners to get their cat vaccinated as soon as possible, and continue to keep vaccinations up to date,” said Cameron.
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