Several cats who recently died in Steel City, Lower Saucon Township were the victims of a disease, and weren’t poisoned, the Pennsylvania SPCA announced Thursday.
In a news release, the Philadelphia-based organization said a necropsy that was performed on a cat euthanized at a local animal hospital revealed the feline was suffering from panleukopenia.
“Panleukopenia is a severe virus in felines which invades rapidly growing cells such as those of the digestive system, bone marrow, lymph tissue and developing nervous system,” the news release said. “Common symptoms include diarrhea, vomiting, low white blood cell count and seizures.”
It is spread when a susceptible cat has contact with the feces or urine of infected cats or it can be transmitted from a mother to a developing kitten within her uterus.
“The virus is widespread in nature, so almost all cats are exposed to it within the first year of life,” the release indicated.
PSPCA Director of Forensics and Shelter Medicine Dr. Lisa Germanis said the symptoms of panleukopenia–which can appear suddenly–can make it appear that a cat has been poisoned.
“Unfortunately if the disease goes untreated in unvaccinated cats it is usually fatal,” she said.
“The best way to protect your animal is to keep your cat up-to-date on their vaccinations and consult with your veterinarian,” Germanis added. “Panleukopenia is preventable with the FVRCP vaccination. It is also advisable to keep your cats indoors.”
The PSPCA said there is no risk to humans or dogs from the disease.
Police originally reported that the cats may have been poisoned, sparking concern among many Steel City and area residents.
