Volunteers continue to provide help for infected exotic cats
Prayers, supplies, donations needed
(Wylie) June 23, 2013 – About ten days ago, Blue Ribbon News shared a press release from In-Sync Exotics Wildlife Rescue and Education Center in Wylie about the outbreak of canine distemper among several of the sanctuary’s big cats. Here is an update.
“About ten days ago we told you about the outbreak of canine distemper that has occurred among 22 of the big cats at In-Sync Exotics. It is believed that the disease was brought to In-Sync by one of the infected raccoons in the area. Canine distemper causes problems in the respiratory system, digestive system, and finally the nervous system. Among dogs, the disease has a survival rate of about 50%. There is not a great deal of data on the survival rate of big cats infected with the virus.
When the news was first announced, the 22 affected cats had all shown signs of respiratory problems, some had shown digestive distress, but none were showing neurological difficulties. Sadly, we must now report that several of the cats are occasionally showing signs that the virus has now invaded their central nervous system. Symptoms have thus far included ataxia (a wobbly walk), twitchy skin, muscle spasms, and we’ve seen two seizures. We are continuing to treat all these cats with a multitude of medications, including antibiotics (to ward of secondary infections) as well as vitamins and supplements (to boost their immune and digestive systems).
Of the ten cats that were not showing symptoms ten days ago, two are causing us some concern now, but it is too soon to tell if distemper is the problem. They have been put on antibiotics just in case. As for the other eight, this does not mean they are out of the woods yet. We are still treating them with medications that will hopefully allow them to continue to fight off the virus.
As a reminder, it is believed that the smaller cats (cheetahs, cougars, lynx, servals, bobcats, ocelots, and domestic cats) are not prone to infection of the canine distemper virus. We are, however, watching them closely, as viruses have been known to mutate.
Public support for our sanctuary has been phenomenal! Supporters have made monetary donations, brought us exotic meats for us to use in dispensing medications, and have even dropped off snacks and water for volunteers. We can’t possibly thank them enough, and we are hopeful they will continue to support us in the fight that is far from over. For anyone who would like to help, please consider donating money, gift cards (Wal Mart, Kroger, etc.) or supplies. Needed supplies include: bottled water, bleach wipes, hand sanitizer, hand soap, and paper towels. We could also use your positive thoughts and prayers.”
In-Sync Exotics Wildlife Rescue and Educational Center is located at 3430 Skyview Drive Wylie. They are dedicated to the rescue and care of abused, neglected, or unwanted exotic cats. There are now 61 exotic cats calling In-Sync home. This includes three exceptionally rare white lions, a golden tabby tiger, three white tigers and two cheetahs. For more information about the sanctuary, visit insyncexotics.com.
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Update on In-Sync’s battle with canine distemper added by Editor on
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