Cat leukemia sidelines Detroit police feline officer

A suburban Detroit police department saida cat set to be deputized for therapeutic purposes and public appearances has developed a serious illness.

The Troy Police Department saidThursdaythat Badges can't perform the duties because she's been diagnosed with feline leukemia, an often fatal disease that can be transmitted to other cats.

Michigan Humane Society spokeswoman Anna Chrisman saidthe group hopes to find a new home for Badges for "as long as she is with us."

The Police Department's "feline handler" has other cats who could be put at risk.

The Police Department is seeking another police cat. A new one could be officially appointedFridaythe day planned for Badges' swearing-in.

Troy police saidin a tweet that Badges will always be the department's "first 'pawfficer."'