Sioux Falls Humane Society Takes Action Against Contagious Cat Illness

Officials at the Sioux Falls Area Humane Society have now identified the cause of an illness that impacted a large number of its resident cats, which led to a temporary halt in adoptions.

According to an update on the Humane Society's website:

'Testing has confirmed panleukopenia, a severe and highly contagious virus that affects the intestines and bone marrow in cats. It is spread through bodily fluids, feces, and contaminated surfaces. Symptoms include loss of appetite, vomiting, and diarrhea. Despite best efforts, the mortality rate for unvaccinated kittens is often greater than 90%.

Through further investigation, we identified multiple intakes of unvaccinated cats from overpopulated households that may be associated with the positive findings.'

READ MORE: Health Officials Warn Of Possible Measles Exposure in South Dakota

The Humane Society says it has closed affected areas in the facility, enhanced cleaning and disinfection protocols, and is closely monitoring all of the cats on the property to limit any further spread of the virus.

The ban on adoptions will be lifted, effective Saturday (December 20), for all low-risk, vaccinated, or non-exposed cats. Officials say adopting these cats will reduce the risk of transmission for the more vulnerable kittens at the shelter.

It is business as usual for dog adoptions at the facility.

Currently, the Humane Society is not accepting owner surrenders or stray cats. They advise reporting strays to 24petconnect.com or considering temporarily fostering while the owner is located.

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