Heartbreak for local cat charity as disease kills four kittens

A local charity has called for support as a deadly disease has taken the lives of four kittens.

Middleton-based charity Oldham Cats Rescue is devoted to rescuing and rehoming stray, abandoned or unwanted cats.

The recent outbreak of panleukopenia, a disease referred to as ‘feline distemper', has taken the lives of four of their kittens and left the service in desperate need of funds.

Panleukopenia does not spread to humans, but in cats is responsible for a decrease in white blood cells which compromises their immune system.

Death can result in less than 24 hours and the disease is highly contagious.

The importance of protecting adult cats from the outbreak demands that the kitten room be fumigated and all cages destroyed, and that the Rescue cannot accept or rehome any cats for the next two weeks.

Davina Hanes, from Oldham Cats, said: "The Rescue Manager Faye Kennerley, myself and other volunteers are distraught, working tirelessly to ensure the risk of infection doesn't spread to the adult room or resident cats.

"This killer disease has hit us hard emotionally and financially, all of us who pour our heart into our rescue work."

The cost of emergency treatment and testing of two litters has placed great strain on the Rescue, who rely entirely on volunteers, fundraisers and supporters.

In an overwhelming show of support, £6,000 was raised within 48 hours after an appeal on the group's Facebook page.

Davina Hanes saluted the staggering support they have received.

She said: "We are truly humbled and appreciative of a community who has pulled together for us, knowing we are a registered charity and rely on the goodwill of the wonderful public.

"The refurb will no doubt cost thousands but is necessary to ensure there is no potential risk of spread of infection.

"There has been a rise of this virus of late in other places; a horrific disease that has wiped out tiny innocent lives.

"It's heartbreaking for us all at the moment, but as a team we are carrying on because we care."

The charity are still in need of funds, however, and are continuing their appeal for help.

A fund-raising event will take place at the Royton and Crompton Golf Club on Sunday 2 September, starting at 11am and running through until 4pm.

To donate to the cause, visit:

https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/samantha-fahmy12