Deadly cat virus spreads in Virginia community, USA |

A highly contagious, deadly feline virus has broken out at the Prince William County Animal Shelter in Manassas, and officials warn it has possibly spread into the local cat population.

InsideNoVA reports Feline Panleukopenia Virus (FPV) recently broke out at the shelter, coming from a stray cat that was taken in.

According to the report, FPV is highly contagious among cats, as well as ferrets, raccoons, mink and foxes. It is most often spread through the animal’s bodily fluids or feces, or through fleas.

Though the virus does not affect humans, it can also be spread from animal to animal through contact with humans, or through items like food dishes, bedding, animal toys, clothing and the like.

Symptoms include diarrhea – which can be bloody – vomiting, lethargy and fever.

Animal control officials warn cat owners may not want to let their cats wander outside unsupervised, and may not want to leave dishes of cat food outdoors.

In addition, officials suggest that all cats, including indoor cats, should be vaccinated for FPV.

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