20 wild cats succumb to bird flu at Shelton sanctuary

https://mynorthwest.com/4022452/20-wild-cats-succumb-to-bird-flu-at-shelton-sanctuary/

20 wild cats succumb to bird flu at Shelton sanctuary

Dec 23, 2024, 1:54 PM | Updated: 2:00 pm

BY JULIA DALLAS
MyNorthwest Content Editor
A local wild cat sanctuary is mourning the loss of more than a dozen animals as a deadly disease spreads throughout the country.

The Wild Felid Advocacy Center of Washington in Shelton lost 20 big cats to bird flu this month, Wild Felid Advocacy Center Director Mark Matthews confirmed to MyNorthwest Monday.

Matthews shared the center initially thought the cats had cancer in the chest area as they exhibited pneumonia-like symptoms. However, further testing revealed positive results for avian influenza, commonly called bird flu.

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However, the sanctuary will be closed to the public for a couple of months as the animals quarantine, which means the money made from admissions will be lost. Matthews said donations are greatly appreciated in the meantime. To donate, visit this link, or send a check by mail to: Wild Felid Advocacy Center of Washington at 3111 East Harstine Island Road North, Shelton, Washington 98584.

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