The National Veterinary Hospital wishes to inform the public of an ongoing outbreak of Feline Panleukopenia disease in cats. Here’s a FAQs to help you as a cat owner to understand this disease and take steps to protect your cats from it.
FAQs
Feline Panleukopenia (FP), also known as feline distemper or feline parvovirus, is a highly contagious and often deadly viral disease affecting cats.
The virus is highly contagious and can spread through direct contact with an infected cat’s saliva, urine, or feces. It can also be transmitted indirectly through contaminated objects like food bowls, litter boxes, bedding, and even human hands or clothing. The virus is very resilient and can survive in the environment for a long time.
Symptoms vary, but they often include:
- Fever
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea, which may be bloody
- Loss of appetite
- Dehydration
- Lethargy
- Depression
In severe cases, the disease can lead to sudden death.
Unvaccinated cats, especially kittens, pregnant cats, and those with compromised immune systems, are at highest risk.
Diagnosis is usually based on clinical symptoms, history, and a blood test that shows a low white blood cell count. There are also specific tests, such as a fecal ELISA test, to confirm the presence of the virus.
There is no specific antiviral treatment for FP. Treatment focuses on supportive care to manage symptoms, which may include:
- Intravenous (IV) fluids to combat dehydration and electrolyte imbalances
- Antibiotics to prevent secondary bacterial infections
- Nutritional support
- Anti-nausea medication
Prompt veterinary care is essential for increasing a cat's chances of survival.
Yes. Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent FP. The FP vaccine, usually given in combination with other vaccines, is highly effective. Starting at 6–8 weeks old, kittens should receive a series of vaccines, with boosters as recommended by a veterinarian. Annual booster shots are recommended thereafter.
No, FP is species-specific and only affects cats. It cannot infect humans or other animals like dogs. However, cats can spread it to each other very easily, so precautions are necessary to protect other cats if one cat is diagnosed with FP.
If you suspect exposure, isolate the cat immediately and seek veterinary care. Vaccinated adult cats are usually less vulnerable, but young kittens and unvaccinated cats are at high risk. An early intervention at the first sign of symptoms increases the prognosis.
