Navajo County Animal Care and Control
Feline Panleukopenia (Cat Distemper)
Feline Panleukopenia is a serious infectious disease. It is relatively common in
unvaccinated cats and is often fatal, especially for young kittens. The feline Panleukopenia
virus, also known as FPV, is easily spread by contact with a diseased animal or
its secretions. Panleukopenia is often referred to as feline distemper because it
produces symptoms similar to those displayed in dogs with distemper. These two diseases
are different, however, and are not caused by the same virus. Who´s at Risk? Any
cat or kitten that has not been vaccinated against feline Panleukopenia is at risk.
This is a hardy virus that can lurk in carpets and upholstery for years.
Cats can be infected by litter boxes, food bowls and even toys and clothes. Therefore,
introducing an unvaccinated cat to a surroundings previously inhabited by a sick
cat, puts her at great risk. Kittens are especially susceptible to feline distemper
because their immune systems are often underdeveloped and cannot fight off the infection.
In fact, kittens can be infected in utero or during birth. Mortality rates for this
form of neonatal Panleukopenia are extremely high. Survivors of the infection may
suffer cerebella damage.
Symptoms
Symptoms of feline distemper usually show up within a week and a half of exposure
to the virus. Sick cats often run a high fever, accompanied by apathy and loss of
appetite. Vomiting, diarrhea and abdominal pain may also be present.
Treatment
if you suspect that your cat may have feline Panleukopenia, get it to the vet immediately.
Early detection and treatment is crucial for the cat’s survival and recovery. Your
vet will probably perform a blood test and begin immediate treatment.
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