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Potentially fatal cat virus discovered in Sooke region

Sooke Veterinary Hospital veterinarian Deborah Lambert identified the outbreak of feline panleukopenia

An outbreak of a potentially fatal virus that only affects cats has been found in Sooke.

Sooke Veterinary Hospital veterinarian Deborah Lambert identified the outbreak of feline panleukopenia after a sick cat was reported around Church Road in Sooke.

Panleukopenia, a highly infectious virus causing lack of appetite, fever, vomiting, and diarrhea in cats, is also known as feline distemper.

Lambert said the virus usually affects young cats and kittens. The disease usually presents in cats experiencing vomiting or diarrhea.

Feline panleukopenia or distemper is often fatal, especially when contracted by kittens.

“Knowing that the virus is in Sooke, we implore cat owners to ensure their pets are up to date on vaccinations, and for all new owners to have their cats checked by their veterinarian for appropriate vaccinations,” said Lambert.