Feline Panleukopenia (FPV), or feline distemper, or parvovirus, is an infectious virus that readily spreads and can be lethal to cats, particularly kittens and those who have not been vaccinated. Although vaccination will keep FPV at bay, it is still widespread in animal shelters, among stray cat colonies, and with owners of pet animals who do not know its severity.
What Is Feline Panleukopenia?
Feline Panleukopenia is caused by the feline parvovirus, which infects cells that proliferate rapidly in the body of a cat. “Panleukopenia” refers to a drastic reduction in white blood cells (leukocytes) causing a complete immunodeficiency.
It mainly targets the gastrointestinal system, bone marrow, and the fetuses in pregnant cats. It can be viable in the environment for a few months or even years and is resistant to most cleaning substances.
How Is It Spread?
FPV is highly infectious and spreads through:
- Direct contact with infected cats
- Contaminated surroundings: bedding, food and water bowls, litter boxes, and grooming equipment
- Fomites: human beings can transport the virus on clothing, footwear, or hands
The virus is shed through all of its bodily secretions, particularly feces, and even trace amounts can infect susceptible cats.
Symptoms of Feline Panleukopenia
Symptoms may develop weeks after exposure and include:
- High fever
- Lethargy and depression
- Loss of appetite
- Vomiting and diarrhea (usually bloody)
- Dehydration
- Abdominal pain
- Sudden death in severe cases or young kittens
In pregnant cats, the virus causes miscarriage or serious neurological damage in the kittens.
When Do Kittens Open Their Eyes
Diagnosis and Treatment
Diagnosis is usually:
- Clinical signs and history
- Blood tests (showing low white blood cell count)
- Fecal tests to identify the virus
There is no cure for FPV. Treatment is supportive and includes:
- Intravenous fluids to treat dehydration
- Anti-nausea and anti-diarrheal medication
- Antibiotics to treat secondary bacterial infections
- Nutritional support
If treatment is given early, some cats—particularly adults are able to recover, but kittens typically have a poor prognosis.
Prevention Is Key
Vaccination is the best method of prevention for feline panleukopenia. Kittens must be vaccinated with the first FPV vaccine at 6 to 8 weeks of age. From there, they will require boosters every 3 to 4 weeks until they reach around 16 to 20 weeks of age. As adults, they require an annual booster vaccine.
Preventive steps also include:
- Isolating infected or unvaccinated cats
- Comprehensive cleaning using parvovirus-killing disinfectants (e.g., bleach)
- Following proper hygiene when working with multiple cats
Last Thoughts
Cat Panleukopenia is a fatal illness that is largely preventable. If you have a cat or work with them in any capacity, having good hygiene and staying current on shots is the key to survival. Discuss your cat’s vaccination schedule with your vet and find out the best way to keep your cat safe from this lethal virus.
Stay up to date. Stay safe. And always prioritize your cat’s health.
Got questions about feline vaccinations or disease prevention? Leave them in the comments or make an appointment with your vet today!
