TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Yilan County’s Animal and Plant Disease Control Center on Monday dismissed recent allegations of a feline distemper outbreak at its stray animal shelter, assuring the public that all suspected cases have been promptly isolated and treated.
The center’s statement followed a social media post on Sunday that claimed many cats at the shelter appeared near death, lacked basic necessities such as cat litter, and were kept in unsanitary conditions. The post also accused the shelter of failing to contain the spread of feline distemper and cited poor staff attitudes as discouraging potential adopters and supporters, according to CNA.
Feline distemper, medically known as “feline panleukopenia,” is a highly contagious viral disease among certain animal species that suppresses bone marrow function. The disease spreads through direct or indirect contact with bodily fluids such as feces, vomit, and saliva from infected cats, or contaminated objects like litter boxes and clothing.
The center stated that although the disease remains a serious and common threat, there is currently no evidence of a large-scale outbreak at the shelter.
Addressing concerns about shelter hygiene, the center clarified that the facility’s original design does not include dedicated cat enclosures. Instead, kittens are housed in mesh cages equipped with protective padding and fabric.
Cat litter is provided according to each animal’s developmental stage and behavior. The shelter undergoes daily cleaning and weekly disinfection routines.
Additionally, all enclosures are thoroughly sanitized whenever animals leave the shelter. Adopters are informed of the potential risk of illness during the virus’s incubation period or due to changes in environment.
Regarding accusations of poor staff conduct, the center highlighted that surveillance cameras are installed throughout the shelter, and regular monitoring of camera footage is conducted. The public is encouraged to provide specific dates and times of any incidents so that recordings can be reviewed.
