Kitten season is upon us, and while it’s a time of joy and excitement as we welcome new litters, it is also a critical period for awareness and vigilance. We’ve already encountered our first litter of kittens with Panleukopenia this season, so let’s dive into what that means and how we can help protect our furry friends.
What is Panleukopenia? While also known as the feline Parvovirus or feline Distemper, it is a highly contagious and potentially life-threatening viral disease. The term "Panleukopenia" breaks down as follows: "Pan" = all, "Leuko" = white blood cells, "Penia" = decrease in essence. Panleukopenia means there is a decrease in the amount of white blood cells (which are crucial for a healthy immune system).
Understanding the virus, Feline Panleukopenia Virus (FPV) has been re-emerging in feral cat colonies across the US, posing a significant risk to unvaccinated domestic cats. Most pet cats receive annual vaccinations, which greatly reduce the risk of infection. However, it’s important to recognize and understand this disease, especially if you’re involved in rescuing or fostering kittens. Unlike canine Distemper, feline Distemper (FPV) is a proto-parvo virus. Interestingly, the canine Parvovirus directly mutated from the feline Parvovirus. While kittens can contract Parvovirus from dogs, dogs cannot contract FPV from cats.
How Does Panleukopenia Affect Cats?
FPV primarily targets bone marrow, lymphoid tissue, and intestinal cells. Common symptoms in kittens include lethargy, vomiting, diarrhea, belly pain, anorexia, and bloody stools (in about 15% of cases) These symptoms differ from canine Parvovirus, where bloody stools are more common. If your kitten or cat shows any of these signs, it’s crucial to contact your veterinarian immediately.
Diagnosing and Treating Panleukopenia.
Diagnosing FPV is straightforward; using a fecal antigen test (which is the same test used for canine Parvovirus). If a kitten or cat is diagnosed, the first 48 hours are critical. While there is no cure for FPV, treatment focuses on managing symptoms. This includes IV fluids (to prevent dehydration) and a syringe or feeding tube with a specialized mix of foods and fluids to maintain nutrition.
Prevention is Key!
The best way to protect your cats from FPV is through vaccination. Ensure your pets are up-to-date with their vaccinations, and if you’re rescuing or fostering, keep new kittens isolated until they’ve been vet-checked and vaccinated.
Spread the word!
FPV is a serious threat, but we can protect our feline friends with awareness, prompt veterinary care, and preventive measures. Let’s spread the word this kitten season, and ensure all cats and kittens get the care they need to thrive. If you suspect any symptoms in your kittens, don’t hesitate to reach out to your vet as early intervention can make all the difference.