Lehigh Valley Cats Die From Feline Disease

Officials say the dead stray cats that police in eastern Pennsylvania feared were poisoned actually died of a feline virus.

The Pennsylvania SPCA said Thursday the cats died of panleukopenia, a virus that can come on quickly and be fatal if left untreated. Officials found the virus while performing necropsies on two stray cats found dead last week in Lower Saucon Township.

Police speculated last week that the cats were poisoned because the animals didn't have any signs of trauma and appeared healthy. They were investigating whether antifreeze was given to the cats.

Officials said Tuesday that it didn't appear the cats were poisoned, but waited until Thursday to present a firm finding on the deaths.

The feline virus can be prevented with vaccinations.