Understanding Feline Distemper: Key Facts & Prevention

1. What is Feline Panleukopenia?

Feline Panleukopenia, also known as feline distemper, is a highly contagious and acute infectious disease caused by the Feline Panleukopenia Virus (FPV). It is sometimes referred to as panleukopenia due to one of its consequences: a decrease in white blood cell count, which is the essence of the term 'panleukopenia'.

White blood cells play a crucial role in the immune system, helping to prevent infections and diseases. In severe cases of panleukopenia, the white blood cell count can plummet from the normal few thousand per milliliter of blood to just a few hundred, making infected cats highly susceptible to other infections.

2. How is the infection spread?

The virus is present in all excretions of an infected cat, particularly in feces. Susceptible cats can become infected through direct contact with an infected cat, or the virus can be transmitted through contaminated water, feeding utensils, or even shoes and clothing. The incubation period from infection to the appearance of clinical symptoms typically ranges from 3 to 5 days, rarely extending beyond a week.

3. What are the clinical symptoms of feline panleukopenia?

Cats often exhibit signs of depression or lethargy, which may worsen over time. Since the virus infects and destroys rapidly dividing cells, the intestines are frequently affected, leading to vomiting and diarrhea, which may contain blood. The coat can become dull and rough, and the skin may lose its elasticity due to dehydration.

Infected cats may also suffer from secondary infections due to weakened immune systems. Green or yellow puslike discharges from the eyes, nose, and mouth are common. In severely infected kittens, the only symptom may sometimes be sudden death.

4. Can feline panleukopenia be treated?

There is no specific treatment for FPV infection. Treatment generally involves the use of feline interferon, monoclonal antibodies, protein inhibitors, and symptomatic care. While antibiotics cannot kill the virus, they can help control secondary bacterial infections. Dehydration and secondary bacterial infections often result from the lack of white blood cells, leading to a weakened immune system. Therefore, aggressive intravenous fluid therapy and broadspectrum antibiotics are crucial. If a cat receives supportive care early in the disease, the prognosis can be favorable.

5. How can feline panleukopenia be prevented and controlled?

Vaccination

Prevention is always better than treatment. There are highly effective vaccines available. Puppies can receive their first vaccination between 49 and 70 days of age, followed by a second vaccination at 84 days, and then an annual booster shot thereafter.

Regular Disinfection

Regularly clean your cat's living area, especially the litter box, using bleach (mix 32ml of water with 1ml of bleach, ensuring at least 10 minutes of contact) or other household disinfectants.

Isolation of Sick Cats

As a highly contagious disease, any suspected cases must be isolated to prevent transmission to healthy cats.

Boost Immunity

Ensure your cat's diet is wellbalanced and complement it with pet health supplements to enhance their immune system.