Symptoms, Treatment, & Prevention of Feline Distemper

Understanding Feline Panleukopenia Symptoms

Feline Panleukopenia, also known as feline panleukopenia virus (FPV) or feline infectious enteritis, is a highly contagious and acute disease in cats. It is characterized by a sudden onset of fever, persistent vomiting, diarrhea, dehydration, circulatory disturbances, and a dramatic decrease in white blood cell count. While not all cases of white blood cell reduction are due to panleukopenia, other conditions such as feline leukemia or hepatitis can also cause it. Cats that are not fully vaccinated or unvaccinated are more susceptible to the disease, with kittens under one year of age being particularly vulnerable. The infection rate can reach 70%, and the mortality rate is between 50% and 60%. The youngest kittens, under five months, have the highest mortality rate, which can be as high as 80% to 90%. The disease can spread rapidly in a cattery, affecting all cats or an entire litter. Most cats with panleukopenia die due to dehydration and secondary bacterial infections.

However, it is crucial to recognize the early signs of panleukopenia, as treatment becomes extremely challenging once the disease has progressed to its later stages. Early detection and intervention are vital for the survival of affected cats.

Early Signs of Feline Panleukopenia

1. Fever: A healthy cat's body temperature is slightly higher than humans, typically between 3839.5°C. Infection with panleukopenia raises the temperature to over 40°C, making the cat feel notably warmer to the touch.

2. Loss of Appetite: There will be a significant decrease in the frequency and amount of food consumed. If your cat shows no interest in its favorite treats or snacks, it's a red flag.

3. Lethargy: The cat's energy levels and vitality will decrease, and it may not respond to usual stimuli, such as a cat toy.

4. Vomiting: Initially, vomiting may occur after eating, followed by the regurgitation of yellowish fluid.

5. Diarrhea: The stool will start to become softer and more frequent, eventually turning into almost liquid form.

If your cat exhibits three or more of these symptoms, it's essential to seek veterinary care immediately. Diagnosis can be confirmed through panleukopenia tests or a more precise blood test at the vet's office.

Treatment for Feline Panleukopenia

Unfortunately, there is no specific cure for feline panleukopenia. Treatment usually involves a combination of therapies, including:

Antiviral therapy: Medications like feline panleukopenia antiserum and interferon.

Supportive care: Nonenteral administration of fluids and electrolytes to combat dehydration and nutritional imbalances caused by vomiting and diarrhea.

Antibiotics: Oral or injectable broadspectrum antibiotics to prevent secondary bacterial infections.

Blood transfusions: In cases of severe blood loss, a blood transfusion may be necessary.

Cats with panleukopenia are also sensitive to cold, so maintaining warmth is crucial. Additional fluids, such as a 10% glucose solution mixed with saline, should be provided. Probiotics can help regulate the digestive system, as antibiotics can disrupt the gut flora, leading to diarrhea.

While many of these medications can be purchased at pet hospitals or pharmacies, treating your cat at home requires a significant amount of time and patience. During recovery, focus on a diet rich in protein and fat, served in a liquid form to avoid digestive stress. Avoid feeding difficulttodigest foods like milk, eggs, and liver.

Preventing Feline Panleukopenia

Prevention is always better than treatment. Vaccination is the first line of defense against feline panleukopenia. It's also advisable to minimize exposure to crowded places like outdoor areas, pet markets, and veterinary clinics, as even vaccinated cats can contract the disease if the vaccine has not taken effect or has become ineffective.

If your cat is diagnosed with panleukopenia, remain calm. While it is a serious condition, it is not incurable. Follow the treatment plan outlined by your veterinarian, and remember that early intervention is key to recovery. For more information on medication treatments, check out our article on "Feline Panleukopenia Treatment Methods."