The cattery at the Elizabethton/Carter County Animal Shelter has reopened, following a temporary quarantine resulting from feline panleukemia.

“The cats are doing better and the cattery reopened,” said shelter Director Stacey Heiden. “People are adopting and feel good about it.”

She said visitors to the shelter are also understanding that cats surrendered to the shelter need to be vaccinated first. This gives the panleukemia vaccine time to become effective before entering the shelter, she said. The vaccines are available at the Tractor Supply Company for less than $10 and she said they contribute greatly to the health of all cats at the shelter.

Panleukemia can stay in an environment for months, so she said a comprehensive approach to prevention is vital to keep cats healthy and to maintain positive adoption rates.

Heiden also reported the number of foster homes has increased, which makes more space and happier pets at the shelter.