Feline Panleukopenia (FPV): Everything You Need to Know

What is Feline Panleukopenia?
Feline Panleukopenia (also known as feline parvovirus or FPV) is a highly contagious and potentially fatal disease that affects cats, especially kittens. While the name sounds similar, it is not the same as canine parvo or distemper; FPV is caused by a different virus specific to cats.

The good news? It’s preventable with a simple vaccine.

What Does FPV Do?
FPV targets rapidly dividing cells in the body, especially those in the bone marrow, lymph nodes, intestines, and developing fetuses. The term “panleukopenia” refers to a severe drop in white blood cells, which leaves the body vulnerable to other infections.

Fortunately, highly effective vaccines are available to protect your cat from this serious illness.

How is FPV Spread?
Infected cats shed the virus through their stool, urine, and nasal secretions. Other cats can become infected through direct contact or by touching contaminated objects such as:

• Bedding

• Litter boxes

• Food and water bowls

• Cages

• Hands or clothing of people who’ve handled an infected cat

• Fleas from infected animals

Pregnant cats can also pass the virus to their kittens in utero.

Symptoms of FPV:
Many cats infected with FPV show no symptoms at all. However, those that do—most often kittens and young cats—may experience:

• Diarrhea

• Vomiting

• Fever

• Lethargy or depression

• Dehydration

• Abdominal pain

If your cat is showing any of these signs, contact your veterinarian immediately.

Diagnosis and Treatment:

Your vet may suspect FPV based on your cat’s symptoms, vaccination history, and possible exposure to other cats. Bloodwork is often used to check white blood cell counts and support a diagnosis.

There is no specific cure for FPV, but supportive care can save lives.

Treatment focuses on managing symptoms, including providing fluids, nutrition, and monitoring for secondary infections. In severe cases, hospitalization and isolation may be necessary. Early intervention offers the best chance of recovery.

Prevention is Key!

The best way to protect your cat from FPV is through vaccination. Kittens are especially vulnerable, and while they may receive temporary immunity from their mother’s milk, that protection fades quickly.

The FPV vaccine is included in the FVRCP combination vaccine, which also protects against feline herpesvirus and calicivirus. This is a core vaccine recommended for all cats.

Kittens should receive their first dose at 6 weeks of age, followed by a series of boosters.

Not Sure If Your Cat is Vaccinated?

We’ve got you covered! Schedule a yearly wellness exam at our Bredel Clinic. Our caring, experienced team will give your pet a full nose-to-tail exam, review their vaccination history, check their dental health, and talk with you about age-specific care for your pet.

And the best part?

When you book a checkup with us, you’re not just caring for your pet, you’re also helping animals in need. Proceeds from our clinic support HART’s mission to rescue, shelter, and adopt homeless pets.

Call 301.387.7729 to schedule your pet’s appointment today!