Local

Cabarrus County Animal Shelter suspends cat adoptions due to illness

CABARRUS COUNTY, N.C. — The Cabarrus County Animal Shelter has suspended cat adoptions and intakes to contain Panleukopenia, a highly contagious illness that causes vomiting, diarrhea and lethargy.

The suspension of activities will last through Aug. 25, officials said.

Staff discovered cats showing symptoms Aug. 22 and notified the staff veterinarian and officials at the North Carolina Department of Agriculture. Staff then began procedures to contain the outbreak and sanitize the facility.

Panleukopenia symptoms can go undetected for up to two weeks.

The shelter did not place cats with any families in the last two weeks.

Staff is contacting rescue organizations in custody of cats that may have been exposed to the illness.

The shelter will operate normal hours for its other services, including reclaiming pets and dog adoptions and rescues.

Read more top trending stories on wsoctv.com: