In 2026, over 300 cats tested positive for feline panleukopenia in Miami-Dade and Broward counties, as reported by Univision Miami this past Friday.
Veterinarians in the area are witnessing a continuous rise in cases and urge pet owners to ensure vaccinations are up-to-date.
Feline panleukopenia, often referred to as feline parvo, is an extremely contagious and potentially lethal disease. The virus leads to vomiting, diarrhea, dehydration, and in severe situations, can result in an animal's death within just 24 to 48 hours after initial symptoms manifest.
"Feline panleukopenia spreads swiftly. It has long been prevalent among young kittens, but now we're seeing a new strain impacting adult cats as well," stated Amy Dombkowski, a veterinary technician at Purrr Adoption & Sanctuary in Pembroke Park.
Deborah Pachano from Pretty Kitty Rescue in Miami echoed this sentiment, noting that she had never encountered anything similar in her years of feline rescue work. "I have managed many cases before, but this particular strain has taken them very quickly," she remarked.
Two underlying factors exacerbate the situation in South Florida: the extreme summer heat, which helps the virus survive in the environment, and the persistent overpopulation of stray cats in the area, which facilitates the transmission among unvaccinated animals.
The virus has an incubation period ranging from two to seven days, allowing it to spread from a cat before any visible symptoms appear.
Although the virus does not infect humans, people can carry it on their hands, clothing, or contaminated surfaces, making any contact with sick cats a potential vector for the virus's spread.
Broward County Animal Care had to quarantine its cat rooms eight to ten times during the season due to the rise in infections.
The feline panleukopenia outbreak in South Florida has surpassed previous incidents in scale. In July 2025, Broward County temporarily halted the intake of stray cats due to an earlier outbreak of the disease.
There is no antiviral cure for feline panleukopenia. Treatment is purely supportive. Experts emphasize that the FVRCP vaccine remains the only effective preventive measure.
Understanding Feline Panleukopenia Outbreaks
What is feline panleukopenia?
Feline panleukopenia is a highly contagious virus, often referred to as feline parvo, that can cause severe illness and death in cats.
How can feline panleukopenia be prevented?
Vaccination with the FVRCP vaccine is the most effective way to prevent feline panleukopenia.
Can humans contract feline panleukopenia?
No, humans cannot contract feline panleukopenia, but they can carry the virus on their hands, clothes, or contaminated surfaces.