Distinguishing Feline Distemper from Enteritis: Key Sym

Cat Distemper Symptoms:

Cat distemper, also known as feline panleukopenia, is a highly contagious disease that affects cats. It occurs when a cat's immune system is weakened and it comes into contact with the virus. The symptoms of cat distemper typically manifest in stages:

1. Latent Virus Stage

During this stage, the distemper virus first潜伏s in the cat's upper respiratory tract and lymphatic system, gradually spreading to the intestines and bone marrow. Cats in this phase do not exhibit any significant symptoms; instead, the virus is merely waiting for an opportunity to erupt.

2. Early Onset of the Virus

In this stage, cats begin to show symptoms, though they are not severe. Close observation may reveal issues with appetite and energy levels, such as decreased appetite and a lower level of activity.

3. Middle Phase of the Virus Outbreak

The symptoms become more pronounced, primarily affecting the gastrointestinal system. Cats may experience vomiting, diarrhea, and gastrointestinal disorders. Their appetite plummets, and they become weak and listless. As the middle phase progresses, vomiting becomes more severe, with vomit transitioning from gastric fluid to a yellowgreen liquid, and the frequency of vomiting increases. Diarrhea also worsens, leading to dehydration and high fever.

4. Late Phase of the Virus Outbreak

This is a critical stage that determines whether the cat will survive. The cat's body temperature usually returns to normal, but gastrointestinal symptoms worsen, with increased vomiting frequency and the passage of watery, smelly feces. The cat may also become dehydrated and anemic. Cats that receive active treatment during these stages and survive the first five days are generally able to recover.

The primary symptoms of cats infected with the distemper virus are gastrointestinal in nature. To differentiate, it's important to note that distemper can indeed cause feline enteritis, and it is a viral enteritis. Compared to enteritis caused by other factors, viral enteritis is more dangerous and lifethreatening. For more information on cat distemper, you can read the article "How to Prevent Cat Distemper" by clicking here.