10/30/2026
Panleukopenia has been prevalent all over in all counties and other states.
Please vaccinate your cats!
Please isolate ALL NEW CATS BROUGHT INTO THE HONE! Treat all new cats as if they could have Panleukopenia, isolate good hygiene habits, wash hands, clean shoes as leaving room. Can put a rug or towel soaked with a bleach solution as you leave the room.
So many adoptions from shelters or rescues have gone wrong because cats not isolated long enough before adopted.
🚨 IMPORTANT HEALTH ALERT: FELINE PANLEUKOPENIA IN RIDGELY 🚨
Feline panleukopenia (FPV) has been identified in multiple areas of Ridgely. Cases have been identified by both Caroline County Animal Control and CCHS.
We want our community to be aware and take precautions to protect their cats.
🐱 WHAT IS PANLEUKOPENIA?
Also known as feline distemper, it is a highly contagious and potentially fatal virus, especially for kittens and unvaccinated cats.
HOW DOES IT SPREAD?
Through infected cats, bodily fluids, and contaminated surfaces. It can also be carried on shoes, clothing, and other objects and can survive in the environment for up to a year.
⚠️ SYMPTOMS TO WATCH FOR:
• Extreme lethargy or weakness
• Loss of appetite
• Vomiting or diarrhea
• Fever and dehydration
If your cat shows symptoms, contact your veterinarian immediately.
💉 PROTECT YOUR CATS!
🐾 Bring outdoor cats inside! We strongly encourage Ridgely residents to keep their cats indoors whenever possible.
🐾 Check their vaccinations! The FVRCP vaccine provides highly effective protection against panleukopenia. Even indoor cats should be vaccinated!
❤️ OUR COMMUNITY IS STEPPING UP!
In response to this outbreak, the Animal Clinic of Denton has stepped up to help protect the cats of Caroline County!
Working alongside CCHS, they are offering $35 FVRCP vaccines for healthy cats in Caroline County, making this critical protection more accessible to local pet owners.
Cats must be current on their rabies vaccination, but a rabies vaccine can be administered at the same visit if needed.
We're incredibly grateful to the Animal Clinic of Denton for stepping up when our community needs it!
Please see the attached flyer for details and contact information!
🚨 TEMPORARY INTAKE RESTRICTIONS
To protect the animals in our care, CCHS will temporarily suspend intake of stray and feral cats from Ridgely until further notice.
If you encounter a sick or injured cat in Ridgely, contact CCHS or Animal Control for instructions before bringing the animal to the shelter.
Please share! Please reach out with any questions by phone or email.
📞 CCHS: 410-820-1600
📩[email protected]