Deadly Feline Disease Spreading Rapidly Across South Florida Cat Communities
A highly contagious and often fatal feline virus, identified as a new strain of feline panleukopenia (feline parvo), is rapidly spreading through cat communities in South Florida. Deborah Pachano from Pretty Kitty Rescue in Miami reported an unprecedented number of cat deaths this summer, stating, 'We've never seen anything like this.' Vet tech Amy Dombkowski from Purrr Adoption & Sanctuary explained that while feline panleukopenia has long affected kittens, this new strain is also impacting adult cats. The virus is highly contagious and can spread quickly, often before symptoms even appear, due to an incubation period of two to seven days. Symptoms include loss of appetite, dehydration, vomiting, diarrhea, and lethargy. There is no cure for the disease, only supportive care, and by the time signs are evident, it is often too late, with many cats dying within 24 to 48 hours. Miami-Dade Animal Services has reported 216 cases this year, and Broward County Animal Care has noted an increase, leading to 8-10 in... 
