Panleukopenia is a highly contagious and life-threatening disease affecting cats, particularly kittens. It strikes fast, spreads easily and can be fatal without prompt treatment. Here’s what every cat carer should know.
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What is panleukopenia?
Feline panleukopenia (FPV), also known as feline parvovirus or feline distemper, is a viral disease that attacks rapidly dividing cells in the body, especially in the bone marrow and intestinal tract. It causes a dramatic drop in white blood cells, leaving the cat defenceless against infection.
It is closely related to canine parvovirus, and the symptoms can be similar. This is not the same as human distemper and it cannot be passed to people.
Symptoms to watch for
Panleukopenia has a sudden onset. If you notice any of these symptoms, especially in kittens or unvaccinated cats, contact your vet urgently:
Kittens can deteriorate quickly and need immediate help.
How it spreads
The virus is shed in saliva, faeces, urine and vomit, and it can survive for up to a year in the environment. It spreads through:
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Direct contact with an infected cat or their bodily fluids
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Contaminated objects like bedding, bowls or litter trays
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Hands, shoes or clothing of people handling infected cats
It is extremely difficult to eradicate from an environment without professional-grade disinfectants.
Diagnosing the disease
Vets typically diagnose panleukopenia through a combination of:
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Clinical symptoms
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History of exposure or vaccination
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Blood tests showing low white cell count
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A faecal test to detect the virus
Early diagnosis is vital for effective treatment.
Veterinary treatment
There is no cure for the virus itself. Treatment focuses on supportive care:
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Intravenous fluids to correct dehydration
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Anti-nausea medication
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Antibiotics to prevent secondary infections
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Nutritional support and warmth
With intensive care, some cats survive. Without it, the disease is often fatal, especially in kittens.
Prevention and vaccination
Vaccination is the best protection. It is considered a core vaccine for all cats, and most cats receive it in their kitten series and then as boosters. Even indoor cats should be vaccinated as the virus can be brought in from outside on clothing or shoes.
Pregnant queens should be vaccinated before mating, as the virus can damage unborn kittens.
The role of diet
Cats recovering from panleukopenia need easily digestible, high-quality nutrition to rebuild strength. A natural, species-appropriate raw diet can support healing and help restore a healthy immune system.
Fresh, unprocessed ingredients give the body the tools it needs to recover and can maintain long-term health. If the cat is weak or refuses food, gentle encouragement and warming the meals slightly may help.
Top 5 Takeouts
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Panleukopenia is a fast-moving viral disease that mainly affects kittens and unvaccinated cats.
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Symptoms include vomiting, diarrhoea, lethargy and fever, often leading to rapid deterioration.
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The virus is highly contagious and can live in the environment for over a year.
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There is no cure, only supportive treatment, so early vet care is critical.
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Vaccination is the best prevention, and natural nutrition can aid recovery.
