01/24/2026
This is a tough situation for the Marshalltown ARL - feline distemper/panleukopenia is a TOUGH disease. It is highly contagious and highly pathogenic and exposed cats get very sick, very fast. Young and unvaccinated cats are most at risk. This is not an easy thing for a shelter to deal with.
We’re sharing this not to cause alarm, but as an opportunity to learn more about this disease and the importance of vaccination, and to show support for an organization that’s doing the right thing to protect the cats in their care. This would be a great time to consider even a small donation if you are able!
🚨 Temporary Closure of Cat Areas at the Shelter
A recently admitted stray cat has tested positive for Feline Panleukopenia (PanLeuk), a highly contagious viral illness that affects cats. Out of an abundance of caution, our cat areas will be temporarily closed while we complete deep cleaning and follow all recommended biosecurity protocols.
This closure helps protect the cats currently in our care and prevents further spread of the virus.
🐾 What Is Panleukopenia?
Feline Panleukopenia (also called feline distemper) is a highly contagious parvovirus that affects rapidly dividing cells in the body. It can cause severe illness, especially in kittens, unvaccinated cats, and cats with weakened immune systems.
🦠 How PanLeuk Spreads
The virus is shed in:
• F***s
• Urine
• Vomit
• Nasal secretions
Cats can become infected through:
• Direct contact with an infected cat
• Contact with contaminated surfaces (bedding, bowls, litter boxes, clothing, hands)
• Fleas from infected cats
The virus is extremely hardy and can survive in the environment for up to a year without proper disinfection.
⚠️ Symptoms to Watch For
If you have cats at home — especially kittens or unvaccinated cats — monitor for:
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Fever
• Lethargy
• Loss of appetite
• Sudden collapse or death in severe cases
If you see these signs, contact your veterinarian promptly.
🧼 What We’re Doing
Our team is:
• Isolating the affected cat
• Deep‑cleaning and disinfecting all cat areas with veterinary‑recommended products
• Monitoring all cats for any signs of illness
• Pausing cat intake and adoption visits until it is safe to reopen
These steps follow national best practices for shelter medicine and are designed to keep our animals and community safe.
💉 How You Can Help
• Vaccinate your cats — the FVRCP vaccine is highly effective at preventing PanLeuk.
• Keep new or stray cats separated from your pets for at least 14 days.
• Wash hands and change clothes after handling unfamiliar cats.
❤️ Thank You for Your Patience
We know closures are inconvenient, but your understanding helps us protect vulnerable animals. We’ll update the community as soon as the cat areas are safe to reopen.