Symptoms & Causes of Feline Distemper in Cats: A Compre

Causes of Feline Panleukopenia: The disease is caused by the feline parvovirus infection.

Transmission of the virus can occur through various means, including contaminated food, environment, contact with sick or recovered cats carrying the virus, and even vertical transmission from mother to kitten. The virus spreads primarily via the gastrointestinal tract, where cats can come into direct or indirect contact with contaminated food, feces, urine, and the environment.

Symptoms of Feline Panleukopenia:

1. The affected cat may show signs of depression and a decrease in appetite.

2. The cat experiences a biphasic fever pattern, characterized by temperatures rising above 40°C, which then drop back to normal for about 24 hours. However, after 2 to 3 days, the temperature spikes again to over 40°C.

3. Vomiting, diarrhea, and possibly bloody stools may occur.

Prevention Measures:

1. Early vaccination is crucial to prevent the disease.

2. In multicat households, it's important to isolate sick or recovering cats to prevent the spread of the virus.

3. Thoroughly disinfect environments that may pose a risk of the virus's presence.

4. Limit the outdoor activities of cats that have not yet completed their vaccination series.

In cases where an infected cat has come into contact with other cats, it is advisable to administer emergency vaccinations or hightiter immune serum to the presumably healthy cats, with the latter being the recommended course of action.

Diagnosis:

1. A complete blood count (CBC) to assess white blood cell levels.

2. A rapid feline panleukopenia virus (FPV) test kit.

3. Blood gas analysis to determine ion concentrations.

Collect the cat's fecal or secretions, dilute them, and then drop the mixture onto the test kit. A positive result is indicated by two lines, while a negative result shows only one line.

Treatment:

1. Specific treatments include the use of feline panleukopenia monoclonal antibodies, recombinant feline omega interferon, and megapeptide.

2. Symptomatic treatments may include antiemetics for vomiting, omeprazole for diarrhea, and other appropriate medications.

3. Prevent secondary infections by administering antibiotics.

It is essential to withhold food and water from a vomiting cat during treatment and to administer fluids appropriately based on dehydration levels. Treatment should be consistent and accompanied by fluid therapy.

Important Notes:

It is recommended to consult with a veterinarian for personalized treatment plans based on your cat's specific condition. Avoid contact between healthy and sick cats, and ensure thorough disinfection of the environment if a cat in your home has previously been diagnosed with feline panleukopenia.