Feline Panleukopenia (Feline Distemper)
Detailed information about Feline Panleukopenia (Feline Distemper)
Feline Panleukopenia (Feline Distemper)
Species: Cat
Breeds Affected: All breeds (unvaccinated kittens are at highest risk)
Overview
A highly contagious parvovirus infection that causes severe damage to the intestinal lining and a marked drop in white blood cells. The virus is hardy in the environment and is often fatal in kittens. Routine vaccination is key for prevention.
Symptoms
- Sudden onset of severe vomiting and often bloody diarrhea; affected cats become extremely lethargic and stop eating. Rapid dehydration occurs (skin loses elasticity)
- and fever is common initially
- though temperature may later drop. Kittens can die suddenly
- and neurologic signs (eg
- tremors) may appear in in utero infections.
Treatments
Aggressive supportive care is essential. Intensive fluid therapy (IV fluids with electrolytes) is used to combat dehydration and shock. Broad-spectrum antibiotics are administered to prevent or treat septicemia, and antiemetic medications (eg, maropitant) help control vomiting. Warmth and close nursing care are critical.
Medications
IV fluids (eg, Lactated Ringers with electrolytes and dextrose); injectable antibiotics (eg, ampicillin or potentiated sulfas) to combat secondary bacterial infections; antiemetic drugs (eg, maropitant or ondansetron); vitamin B injections; in some cases, feline interferon omega has been tried.
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