Home
Dogs
Cats
Birds
Fish, Reptiles
Other Pets
What's New??!!
Report a Lost Pet
Pet Financial Aid, Spay and Neuter Resources, and Rescue Group Assistance
Contact Us
Legal Stuff and Copyright Information
Feline Distemper - Feline Panleukopenia (PenLeuk)
Panleukopenia, also known as PenLeuk or Feline Distemper, is a highly contagious, often fatal, viral disease of cats (especially kittens), that is caused by the feline panleukopenia virus (FPV) (a parvovirus). Especially at risk are cats living in large, unvaccinated feral or domestic colonies.
This extremely contagious parovirus has a high mortality rate, especially in kittens. The virus is easily spread through the shared use of feeding bowls, food, touching of objects (including human handling), fleas, and directly from an unvaccinated mother. While many physical symptoms such as vomiting and/or diarrhea, loss of appetite, refusing water, poor grooming, and abdominal pain are indicators of the virus you should also watch for fever, a "third eyelid," or haw, in the inner corner of the eye, and a "hunched" posture. Diagnosis can be confirmed by the presence of FPV antigen in the feces. The CITEŽ canine parvovirus test kit appears to detect FPV antigen in the acute phase of infection.
If you see these symptoms occuring in your kitten or cat a visit to the vet is a QUICK must. If caught in time treatment will center on reducing the risks of dehydration and fighting off other bacterial infections.
Kittens born from a mother having FVP anti-bodies will be immune until about 8 weeks following birth. After 8 weeks they should receive FVP inoculations that are usually a part of a three-part protocol which includes protection against feline herpesvirus 1(FHV) and feline calicivirus (FCV). There is an FVP antiserum available for kittens under 8 weeks or for adult cats.
Treating the kitten or cat is only half the battle as this virus is very durable and can linger for many months. Thoroughly disinfect the entire living area with a 6% bleach solution.
Additional reading:
Rescue Links