Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

Why did my cats die suddenly after exposure to a sick stray?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

A while ago I took in a stray cat it was really skinny and had a bald patch at the base of its tail above it’s anus it died the day after me taking it in but it unknowingly passed something onto my 2 ragdolls I went on holiday and left my cats with a sitter and she called me to let me know my cats had both passed away very suddenly the only symptom was she said they seemed disoriented they died 2 weeks after coming in contact with the stray I always wanted to know what sickness could of did thi

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on November 18th, 2019

I am so very sorry that you lost your cats. Please accept my condolences for your loss. Without seeing them in person, I can't say what caused them to die, but it may have been something contagious. It could have been something like feline Panleukopenia, it's highly contagious. The other option is they all got into something toxic. Again, I'm sorry for your loss.

Vote icon

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

image
Have A Vet Question?

Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.

Sponsored