Feline Panleukopenia Or Distemper

Feline Panleukopenia or distemper attacks the lining of the gastrointestinal tract causing ulcers. Panleukopenia is caused by a 'parvovirus,' and is a life-threatening disease. The virus is considered to be everywhere, meaning it can be found in just about every place that is not disinfected on a regular basis.

The infection is highly contagious among unvaccinated cats, usually kittens and young adult cats living in groups. It can lie dormant in the environment for many months before infecting an unvaccinated cat or kitten.

How it is spread

Feline panleukopenia is mainly spread through contact with an infected cat's bodily fluids, feces, or from its fleas. It can also be spread through contact with an infected cats food dishes or bedding. Infection occurs when the virus enters the body through the mouth or nose of the unvaccinated cat or kitten. Indoor cats can be at risk as owners can carry the virus on their shoes or clothing.

Symptoms

There are a few things to watch out for if you think your cat or kitten has feline panleukopenia. If you notice fever, loss of appetite, vomiting or bloody diarrhea along with lethargy, depression or loss of skin elasticity, a trip to the vet is advised. As the virus causes a decrease in the cat's white blood cell count, it compromises the immune system. A fecal sample and blood test will be done by your vet to confirm the diagnosis.

Treatment

Feline panleukopenia can kill your cat in less than 24 hours, so aggressive treatment is necessary. This can include a whole blood transfusion as well as intravenous fluids to reverse the dehydration normally associated with feline panleukopenia. Injection of vitamins A, B and C will be necessary as well as antibiotics to prevent septicaemia.

Recovery

Cats who have been treated are able to recover from feline panleukopenia and usually there is no permanent damage. However, the majority of very young kittens, under eight weeks old, will die. With treatment, kittens older than eight weeks have a 30% to 40% chance of living and adult cats have an 80% to 90% chance. Of course without treatment, the chances of the cat dying are greatly increased.

Prevention

It is possible to vaccinate against feline panleukopenia. I suggest speaking to your vet about having your kitten vaccinated at eight and twelve weeks. A booster shot 12 months later is also a good idea with followup shots every three years. Place all bedding and food dishes in a solution of one part bleach to 32 parts water for 10 minutes.