Aug/Sept 25 Newsletter

Feline Panleukopenia Virus

Kittens are fun, spunky, sweet and entertaining. One of the most fun parts of our job is a visit from a cuddly kitten!

Unfortunately, there are some viruses that can infect our adorable feline friends. One that we see in our practice is called Feline Panleukopenia, also known as distemper. You might be more familiar with the puppy version, called Parvo, which causes very similar symptoms.

Feline Panleukopenia Virus is a contagious virus in the parvovirus family. It attacks rapidly growing cells, such as lymph nodes, bone marrow, and the intestinal lining. At the same time it’s reducing the body’s intestinal defenses, it also causes a decrease in all types of white blood cells, so the body can’t fight off other infections.

The symptoms of Panleukopenia are like canine parvovirus and include vomiting, diarrhea, dehydration, lethargy, discharge from the eyes or nose, collapse, and sudden death. There is no treatment for the virus itself; so infected cats receive supportive care that includes fluids to maintain their hydration status, antibiotics to prevent and treat secondary bacterial infections, and medications to help with vomiting and diarrhea. It can take several days for a kitten to recover from the damage the virus can cause.

Feline Panleukopenia is a hardy virus that can only be killed by strong disinfectants, including 2% household bleach. It can live in the environment for a year or more. The virus is secreted in all bodily excretions and cats are infected by direct contact with a sick cat, or by sharing litter boxes, bedding, food and water dishes. The virus can even be tracked on clothing and shoes.

The best way to protect your cat is to vaccinate them. The vaccine is a combination vaccine that protects against multiple cat viruses, including Panleukopenia. To ensure immunity, kittens under 12 weeks of age receive a series of three vaccines given 3-4 weeks apart. Kittens over 12 weeks of age receive two vaccines given 3-4 weeks apart. Once they have finished the initial series, we boost the vaccine yearly to help maintain immunity.

Visiting the vet with your kitten should be a fun time of treats and pets, and it’s also a great time to protect them from this terrible kitten hood disease. One little poke a few weeks apart can prevent disaster!