Quarantine Protocols: The ‘Airlock’ System for New Cats#

The nightmare scenario: You import a stunning $4,000 Maine Coon stud from Europe. He looks healthy. You put him with your queens. Two weeks later, all your kittens are dead from Panleukopenia.

“Healthy” cats carry invisible killers. You need an Airlock.

The 21-Day Rule#

Most viruses (Panleukopenia, Flu) have an incubation period of 3-14 days. Ringworm can take 21 days to show up. [cite_start]Rule: New cats must be isolated for 21 days minimum[cite: 5476].

The Isolation Room Requirements#

According to Feline Husbandry, effective isolation requires more than just a separate room:

1. Separate Airspace: It cannot share HVAC vents with the nursery. Tape them off or use a separate building.
2. Dedicated Footwear: Keep a pair of “Iso Crocs” inside the room. Never wear them out.
3. The “Gowning” Protocol: Wear a smock or robe over your clothes. [cite_start]Wash your hands (and arms) with medical scrub (Hibiclens) before leaving[cite: 5476].

Testing During Quarantine#

Don’t just watch the cat; test them.

• Day 1: PCR Panel (Upper Respiratory + Fecal).
• Day 10: Repeat Fecal (some parasites shed intermittently).
• Day 21: Final check for Ringworm (Wood’s Lamp + Culture).

Conclusion#

Quarantine is annoying. It requires extra space and time. But it is the only wall between your investment and total disaster. Treat your cattery like a bio-secure lab.

References#

1. Pedersen, N.C. Feline Husbandry: Diseases and Management in the Multiple-Cat Environment. American Veterinary Publications, 1991.