Tiny Patients, Mighty Fighters

Aug 19, 2025

An outbreak of deadly, highly contagious panleukopenia at Chicago Animal Care and Control put three tiny kittens’ lives at risk. See how PAWS Chicago’s medical team, fosters, and partners came together to give Mimosa, Mojito, and Negroni a fighting chance.

At just three weeks old, Mimosa, Mojito, and Negroni were far too young to be fighting for their lives. The tiny kittens arrived at Chicago Animal Care and Control (CACC) weak, underweight, and showing signs of severe illness. Tests confirmed panleukopenia—a fast-moving, highly contagious virus that can be deadly for unvaccinated kittens. With an outbreak currently affecting cats at CACC, every moment mattered. 

Our intake team rushed them to the state-of-the-art PAWS Kocourek Medical Center, where they received around-the-clock treatment, fluids, medications, and the careful monitoring needed to stabilize their fragile health. Thanks to our skilled staff, Mimosa and Mojito made remarkable recoveries and are now thriving in a loving foster home. They’re growing bigger and stronger every day with the help of Purina kitten food, generously provided by our feeding partner. 

Negroni’s path has been more challenging. After beating panleukopenia, he developed pneumonia, a dangerous condition for such a young kitten. But he remains in our medical center, receiving specialized care from our veterinary team, who are committed to helping him grow stronger. 

This rescue is just one example of how PAWS Chicago’s medical services save lives that might otherwise be lost. From intensive hospitalization to the comfort and nourishment of a foster home, every step of the journey is made possible by our dedicated staff, foster families, and generous partners. 

Because of this community of care, Mimosa, Mojito, and Negroni each are on their way to a healthy, happy future.