NewsWSVN 7 MiamiAugust 26, 2026Miami-Dade
South Florida veterinarians report spike in feline panleukopenia cases
Veterinarians in South Florida are reporting an increase in feline panleukopenia, a highly contagious and potentially fatal virus affecting both kittens and adult cats. Experts emphasize that the virus is environmentally stable and can be transmitted to indoor cats by owners, making annual vaccinations the primary method of prevention.
Read the full story at WSVN 7 MiamiWhy It Matters
Cat owners in South Florida face an increased risk of pet illness, which may require additional veterinary costs for vaccinations or emergency care and increased hygiene precautions for households.
Key Facts
- Feline panleukopenia (feline parvo) is a highly contagious and potentially deadly virus.
- Symptoms include diarrhea, vomiting, fever, inappetence, and bone marrow suppression.
- The virus can survive on surfaces for up to one year.
- Indoor cats are at risk if owners inadvertently bring the virus home from outside contact.
- Annual core vaccinations are the primary recommended method for prevention and reducing disease severity.
- Animal rescues face increased operational burdens, including the need for quarantine and protective gear, when managing infected animals.
- Low-cost vaccination options are available at various clinics and rescues across South Florida.
Who's Mentioned
personMichelle Reichler“Representative of Saving Sage Animal Rescue.”organizationSaving Sage Animal Rescue“Local animal rescue organization reporting an uptick in virus cases.”locationLauderhill“Location of the news report.”personDr. Erika Blanco“Veterinarian providing medical information on feline panleukopenia.”organizationSunbeam Television Corp.“Copyright holder of the article.”