Tips to Avoid Buying a 'Weekend Cat': Smart Pet Ownersh

The Reason Behind the "Week Cat" Phenomenon

You might have heard of the term "week cat," referring to felines that don't survive more than a week due to a condition known as feline distemper. This is a severe illness that can turn a beloved pet's life into a tragic tale.

Feline distemper, also known as feline panleukopenia or feline infectious enteritis, is an acute, highly contagious disease among cats. The incubation period for this disease ranges from 2 to 9 days, and the symptoms can vary depending on the age of the cat and the virulence of the virus.

Young kittens often exhibit acute symptoms, with temperatures soaring above 40°C, vomiting, and some may not show any signs before suddenly dying. Others might display symptoms of ataxia, a type of coordination disorder affecting the spinal cord. Cats over six months old typically present with subacute symptoms, characterized by fever, followed by a drop in temperature, and then a recurrence of fever, known as a biphasic fever pattern.

Most cases of feline distemper occur in cats under one year old, with an infection rate as high as 70% and a mortality rate ranging from 50% to 60%. The youngest kittens, under five months, have the highest mortality rate, which can reach 80% to 90%. The disease can affect entire colonies or litters simultaneously.

Feline distemper can occur yearround, but it's more prevalent during winter and spring. The virus can survive in the environment for a considerable time, and infected cats can shed the virus in their feces, urine, vomit, and various secretions. Recovered cats can continue to shed the virus for over a year.

Cats infected with feline distemper may also be spread by bloodsucking insects like fleas, lice, and flies. The disease manifests with symptoms like lethargy, loss of appetite, persistent vomiting (often with a yellowgreen color), sticky discharge from the mouth, nose, and eyes, and sticky, pasty feces. Diarrhea indicates the disease is in its advanced stages, with blood in the feces, severe dehydration, and anemia, which can lead to death in severe cases.

There are numerous reasons why a cat might contract feline distemper, including poor feeding environments, inappropriate feeding practices, longdistance travel, stress, weakened immunity, and direct or indirect contact with the pathogen.

The "week cat" phenomenon isn't always the fault of the cat breeder. Sometimes, it's due to the kitten being too young, perhaps just a month or two old, without vaccinations, and inadvertently exposed to the pathogen. Owners can also play a role, as seen in cases where owners take young kittens out for walks, exposing them to potential risks.

As for the rumors of sellers administering stimulants or sera to sick cats before shipping, it's most likely unfounded. Excitants are not commonly used, and sera are expensive, making it unlikely for unscrupulous sellers to invest in them just to sell cats cheaply.

However, some pet owners have still ended up with sick cats despite paying a premium. This often happens when buyers haven't done their homework and haven't been vigilant.

To avoid purchasing a "week cat," here are some tips:

1. Buy Cats Over Two Months Old: At this age, kittens have lost most of their maternal antibodies but haven't developed a robust immune system. Their digestive systems are also vulnerable, especially during the weaning period.

2. Opt for Vaccinated Cats: Ensure the kitten has received at least one vaccination and ask for proof. Be prepared to pay a fair price for a fully vaccinated cat.

3. Negotiate PostPurchase Support: Discuss and agree on solutions in case of illness, such as a guarantee against feline distemper.

4. Observe the Cat's Condition: Look for signs of good health, such as an alert demeanor, normal posture, healthy coat, clean bottom, and clear eyes and nose.

5. Choose Your Source Wisely: Consider buying from a reputable breeder, a wellknown cat shelter, or a trusted cat sitter. Avoid cat brokers and sellers who operate on a fast turnover basis.

6. Be Prepared: Have your new kitten checked for infectious diseases immediately after purchase.

Remember, buying a cat is a significant investment in time and emotion. Do your research, be patient, and choose wisely to ensure your new companion has a long, healthy life. Let's all strive to avoid the heartbreak of the "week cat."