Ashburton's SPCA has closed in response to feline enteritis, commonly known as cat flu. The centre had been flooded with unwanted cats in the past few weeks and has been closed until any further notice.

The organization has to spend a large sum of money for the examination and treatment of the flu affected cats by veterinarians. The centre is not taking up any more cats as the officials at SPCA believe that they might catch the flu.

Ashburton's SPCA shelter provides for unwanted cats, picks up stray cats and rehome cats. The work of the organization is not funded and relied on volunteer labor and food donations. The organization had been operating from many years. The services are accepted by the people as their rights.

SPCA inspector, John Keeley says that SPCA is under pressure from the people because they want the organization to adopt their cats and kittens. The organization is not taking up new cats due to the risk of cat flu. The organization has urged the people to keep the cat population under control.