What is Feline Panleukopenia?

“In ancient times cats were worshiped as gods; they have not forgotten this.” Terry Pratchett
Gods or not (depending on who you ask) we must be aware of all potential health problems, diagnosis, treatment, cures and prevention.

So, what is Feline Panleukopenia?
Feline Panleukopenia (FP), also known as feline distemper or feline parvo, was a leading cause of cat deaths in the past. Today, it is less common due to use of very effective vaccines.

The names feline distemper and feline parvo should not be confused with canine distemper or canine parvo. Although their names are similar, they are caused by different viruses. People are not infected by this virus.

The feline parvovirus infects and kills cells that are rapidly growing and dividing, such as those in the bone marrow, intestines, and the developing fetus. Kittens are most severely affected because their cells are rapidly developing.

Which are susceptible?
All kittens and cats are exposed to the virus at some point in their lives because the FP virus is everywhere in the ecosystem. While cats of any age may be infected with the virus that causes FP, young kittens, sick cats, and unvaccinated cats are most susceptible. It is most commonly seen in cats 3-5 months of age. Death from FP is more common at this age.

Spreading the virus
Cats can shed the virus via any bodily excretions or fluids. The virus is spread when susceptible cats come in contact with these secretions, or even the fleas from infected cats. An infected cat tends to shed the virus for a relatively short period of time (1-2 days), but the virus can survive for up to a year in the environment. As a result, cats can be infected without coming into direct contact with an infected cat. Bedding, cages, food dishes, and the hands or clothing of people who handle the infected cat may hold and transmit the virus to other cats. For this reason, it is important to isolate infected cats.

Diagnosis
The signs of FP can vary and may be similar to other illnesses. Infected cats may even show signs that resemble those of a cat has been poisoned or has swallowed a foreign object.

The cells that line the intestines are damaged by the FP virus. It also attacks the bone marrow and lymph nodes, resulting in shortages of white blood cells (panleukopenia) and of red blood cells (anemia). The first visible signs an owner might notice include generalized depression, loss of appetite, high fever, lethargy, vomiting, severe diarrhea, nasal discharge, and dehydration. Sick cats may sit for long periods of time in front of their water bowls but not drink much water.

Feline panleukopenia may be suspected based on a history of exposure to an infected cat, lack of vaccination, and the visible signs of illness. When that history is combined with blood tests that show severely reduced levels of all white blood cell types, FP is likely the cause of the cat’s illness. FP is confirmed when the feline parvovirus is found in the cat’s stool.

Treatment
For infected kittens less than eight weeks old, the likelihood of recovery is poor. Older cats have a better chance if adequate treatment is provided early. There are no medications capable of killing the virus, so intensive care and treatment are critical. Medication and fluids provide a “holding action” until the cat’s own body and immune system can fight off the virus. Up to 90% of cats with FP may die without such supportive care.

Treatment focuses on rehydration, nutrient supplement, and preventing secondary infection. Although antibiotics do not kill the virus, they are necessary because infected cats are at a higher risk of bacterial infections because their immune systems are not fully functioning (due to the decreased white blood cells) and because bacteria from the damaged gut may enter the cat’s bloodstream and cause infection.

If the cat survives for five days, its chances for recovery are greatly improved. If a cat recovers from FP it will not infect other cats through direct contact but some recovered cats can shed the virus in their stool and urine for up to 6 weeks.

Prevention
Cats that survive an infection develop immunity that likely protects them for the rest of their lives. Mild cases that go unnoticed will also produce immunity from future infection. It is also possible for kittens to receive temporary immunity through the transfer of antibodies in the first milk produced by the mother. How long it protects the kittens from infection depends upon the levels of protective antibodies produced by the mother. It rarely lasts longer than 12 weeks.

Today, there are vaccines that offer the best protection from FP. Vaccination is equally important for both indoor cats as well as indoor/outdoor cats because the virus is everywhere. Kittens receive their first vaccination between six and eight weeks and follow-up vaccines are given until around 16 weeks of age. Adult vaccination schedules vary with the age and health of the cat, as well as the risk of FP in the area. Please call the Bredel Clinic at 301.387.7729 for advice on an appropriate vaccination schedule for your cats.