The Humane Society of Carroll County has temporarily halted cat adoptions because of a deadly feline virus going around the shelter.
The shelter has euthanized cats that became infected with feline calicivirus.
Executive Director Nicky Ratliff says symptoms first showed up a few weeks ago, but the virus wasn't diagnosed until one cat showed distinctive sores in its mouth.
Ratliff says calicivirus is extremely contagious among cats. Animals that contract the virus can spread it for 30 days or more.
The shelter is immediately vaccinating any cats that are brought to the shelter. However, the Humane Society is asking people who find strays to try to hold off on bringing them in.
No cats have been adopted in two weeks, and Ratliff estimates it will be a few more weeks before adoptions resume.