High Transmission Rate: Feline Distemper's Risk Explain

What is Feline Panleukopenia?

Also known as feline panleukopenia or feline infectious enteritis, feline panleukopenia is a highly contagious and acute disease in cats. Its clinical symptoms are typically characterized by a sudden onset of high fever, persistent vomiting, diarrhea, dehydration, circulatory disturbances, and a dramatic decrease in white blood cells. However, not all cases of decreased white blood cells are due to feline panleukopenia; other conditions, such as feline leukemia and feline hepatitis, can also cause a decrease in white blood cells.

Puppies Are Highly Susceptible

Cats that have not been fully vaccinated or are not vaccinated at all are more prone to feline panleukopenia, especially kittens between 3 to 5 months old. If a mother cat becomes infected during pregnancy, it can lead to stillbirths, miscarriages, and neonatal kittens exhibiting neurological symptoms. The disease is transmitted through contact with the virus in infected feces or urine, or through bloodsucking insects and fleas. The causative agent is a virus from the family Parvoviridae and the genus Parvovirus. Once inside the body, the virus can survive in the kidneys for over a year.

Any Age of Cat Can Be Infected

While feline panleukopenia can affect cats of all ages, it is most common in cats under one year old, with an infection rate of up to 70% and a mortality rate of 50% to 60%. The mortality rate for kittens under 5 months old can reach as high as 80% to 90%. As cats age, the incidence of the disease gradually decreases, and it can lead to outbreaks in entire flocks or litters.

The disease can occur yearround, but it is most prevalent during the spring and winter months.

Tip:

Regularly vaccinate your cat against the virus. Vaccination is undoubtedly the most effective way to prevent the disease. Keep your cat's living environment and supplies clean and disinfected, and provide your cat with adequate vitamins to boost its immune system.