Feline Distemper
Feline distemper, also known as feline panleukopenia, is a viral disease that is spread from cat to cat.
It is spread through contact with infected animals or secretions from infected animals.
Feline distemper can be spread through contact with bedding, kennels and food dishes used by infected cats.
It can also be spread on the clothing or skin of people who have handled an infected cat.
Fleas and other insects have also been implicated in spreading feline distemper.
Symptoms Of Feline Distemper:
Kittens tend to be more susceptible to feline distemper, but cats of all ages can be affected. Symptoms include
- a high fever,
- loss of appetite,
- vomiting,
- diarrhea,
- and dehydration.
Feline distemper can frequently be fatal, especially in kittens.
Diagnosis Of Feline Distemper:
Diagnosis of feline distemper will involve a physical examination.
Ruling out other causes of disease which can cause similar symptoms may mean testing for feline leukemia and feline immunodeficiency virus.
Routine blood tests may be performed and may help in diagnosis. However, the size of the animal affected (if the animal is a small kitten) may prohibit drawing enough blood for a complete screen without causing problems due to blood loss.
Specific antibody tests (which test specifically for feline distemper virus) can also be performed on blood samples to diagnose feline distemper, but again, the size of the kitten may prohibit this.
Fecal examinations may be required to rule out parasitic causes of vomiting and diarrhea.
Treatment Of Feline Distemper:
There is no specific cure for feline distemper, but supportive treatment with fluids and antibiotics can save some cats.
Fluid therapy is important in battling dehydration in these cats.
Antibiotics are frequently used to combat secondary bacterial infections.
Other medications to control symptoms such as vomiting and diarrhea may be necessary as well.
Prevention Of Feline Distemper:
The most effective method of protection is vaccination. All cats should be vaccinated against feline distemper.Your cat's veterinarian will be able to advise you of the vaccination protocol which is best suited to your cat's living situation.
Remember: feline distemper is spread through body fluids. Unvaccinated cats and kittens should not be introduced to an area where feline distemper infected cats have been housed.
Discarding any inanimate objects contacting infected cats is the best way to minimize exposure, as the virus can be difficult to destroy by cleansing.
Controlling fleas and other external parasites is also recommended.
Make certain to thoroughly wash your hands and change your clothing after handling any stray or unknown cats.
Be careful when introducing new kittens or cats to your household, as they may be carriers of feline distemper.
