The Gunnedah branch of RSPCA has been given the all-clear to rescue and rehome cats and kittens after an outbreak of Feline Panleucopaenia (FP) in January.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
The RSPCA had to shut its doors to felines after two of the kittens in its care tested positive for the virus.
Local branch president Cheryl Sharman said members was given the nod to get things back in motion on March 1.
“We actually rang them because our cats were showing no symptoms of parvo and asked if we could start putting them on [our Facebook] page again,” she said.
“Luckily, I think we caught it just in time. Vaccinations made all the difference.”
Mrs Sharman said it was relief to be in the clear, and it had been difficult to turn people away.
“It was a rough four or five weeks but we’re getting back in the swing of things now,” she said.
“Every rescue goes through something like this every now and then, so it must have been our time.”
Fellow member Maddison Lawback said giving two live vaccinations to each of the the felines in their care had helped ensure there were no more deaths or illnesses.
The branch currently has almost 30 cats and kittens in care that need new homes and a number of dogs.
Ms Lawback said the branch was still crying out for more foster carers to help keep up with the demand and lessen the pressure on current carers.
“It worries us, the future of our branch without the support of the community,” she said.
“If we’re in the top three for the rehoming with 10 members, imagine how much better we could do if we had more?”
Ms Lawback said foster caring didn’t put people out of pocket because the RSPCA covered all costs.
“You’re at no loss. Everything is paid for,” she said.
“All you have to do is have a secure environment and give them the love and attention they need.”
The volunteer said there were very few young members in the group and a new generation would be needed to help the branch continue to strive into the future.
Related story: Gunnedah RSPCA in lockdown
Boots and Neptune
Boots is an adventurous female five-month-old kitten who races straight to climb a tree during her "outside" time.
When she's finished playing, she is a loyal companion and laps up affection, begging for cuddles and curling up in your lap.
Neptune arrived as a shy male three-week-old kitten who has grown into an obedient and affectionate kitty of four months old. He always comes when called and is a purr machine.
To view all of the cats and kittens in care, visit www.adoptapet.com.au and choose Gunnedah or phone 0419 474 689. The adoption fee is $150 and includes a health check, microchipping, vaccination, worming, desexing and fleaing.
