Symptoms and Treatment of Feline Distemper (Panleukopenia)
Distemper refers to a group of infectious diseases that usually occur in cats at a young age and present with different symptoms. These diseases can often cause respiratory infections, digestive problems or other infections. Distemper is more common in young cats with weak immune systems.
Symptoms can include fever, weakness, loss of appetite, vomiting and diarrhea. Young cats can be more vulnerable and more susceptible to distemper when they are separated from their mother or under stress. This type of illness usually requires veterinary intervention. The vet will take the necessary measures to determine the appropriate treatment and comfort the cat. In addition, vaccinations and regular veterinary check-ups are important to strengthen the immune system of young cats and prevent disease.
Contents
1 What is Panleukopenia in Cats?
2 What is Feline Distemper?
3 How is Feline Distemper Transmitted?
4 Symptoms of Feline Distemper
5 Diagnosis of Distemper in Cats
6 Distemper Treatment in Cats
7 Prevention of Distemper in Cats
How is Feline Distemper Transmitted?
The virus is present in all feces of infected cats, especially in their droppings. A susceptible cat can become infected through direct contact with an infected cat, or the virus can be transmitted through contaminated water, food dishes or shoes and clothing. The incubation period from infection to the appearance of clinical signs is usually three to five days, rarely longer than a week.
Symptoms of Distemper in Cats
Symptoms of Feline Panleukopenia Virus distemper in cats can range from mild to severe. These symptoms may include
- Lethargy in cats
- Depression in cats
- Vomiting in cats
- Diarrhea in cats
- Pain in the abdomen
- Dehydration
- Weight loss in cats
- Coarse or unkempt hair
- Fire
- Decreased appetite
- Collapse (in severe cases)
Bruising of the skin or gums (in severe cases)
In addition, kittens infected with Feline Panleukopenia Virus in early or mid-pregnancy can be aborted. In the late stages of pregnancy, kittens infected in utero can develop cerebellar hypoplasia after birth, a condition in which the virus can affect the formation of a part of the brain called the cerebellum. This affects the area that controls balance and coordination.
Affected kittens may have mild to severe tremors and a wide-based posture. They may often fall or appear uncoordinated. Fortunately, the condition is usually not painful and kittens with special needs can live long and happy lives when kept in a safe environment.
Diagnosis of Distemper in Cats
Veterinarians can use various methods to diagnose Feline Panleukopenia virus (Feline Distemper) in cats. Here are a few steps of this diagnostic process:
Clinical Signs and Medical History
The vet will assess the cat's symptoms and consider the possibility of the disease being confused with other similar conditions.
Factors such as the cat's exposure history, date of ownership, vaccination status, frequency of being outdoors and contact with other cats will be considered.
Blood Tests
The vet will probably do a blood test to assess the levels of white blood cells (leukocytes) and red blood cells (erythrocytes).
If the cat is associated with low white blood cells and possibly low red blood cells, this may strengthen the suspicion of feline panleukopenia.
Fecal Test
A fecal test for Feline Panleukopenia virus can be performed. However, if the cat has received the panleukopenia vaccine 5-12 days before the test, then false positive results may be obtained.
Virus Isolation
The vet can perform a test called virus isolation. This test aims to find the virus in different tissue samples.
Antibody Levels and PCR Test
Measurement of antibody levels and PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) testing can be used to confirm feline panleukopenia virus.
The diagnostic process usually involves a combination of clinical signs, blood tests and specialized virus detection tests. By combining this information, the veterinarian can make a definitive diagnosis and formulate a treatment plan.
Feline Distemper Treatment
Treatment of panleukopenia in cats involves a comprehensive plan directed by a veterinarian. This treatment is adapted to the severity of the symptoms, the stage of the disease and the general state of health. Here are the commonly used treatment methods:
Fluid Therapy: Panleukopenia in cats usually causes severe fluid loss. Fluid therapy is important to prevent dehydration and maintain fluid balance. This can take the form of intravenous (IV) fluid therapy or subcutaneous (under the skin) fluid therapy.
Antiemetic Drugs: If your cat has signs of vomiting, the vet may recommend antiemetic drugs (medications that prevent vomiting).
Appetite Supplements: Cats often have a reduced appetite, so the vet may recommend appetite-boosting medications or special diets.
Antibiotic Treatment: Because panleukopenia causes a weakened immune system, there may be an increased risk of secondary bacterial infections. The vet may recommend combined antibiotics to prevent or treat this condition.
Isolation: Feline panleukopenia is a contagious disease. The sick cat should be isolated for the protection of other pets.
Supportive Care: To keep the cat comfortable and speed up the healing process, the vet may recommend supportive care.
Antivirals: Your veterinarian may recommend antivirals that can be used against the virus and immunostimulants to boost the immune system.
The course of treatment usually depends on the cat's general health. Early diagnosis and treatment is important because panleukopenia can be fatal. When your cat's symptoms are noticed, it is important to contact a veterinarian immediately.
Prevention of Distemper in Cats
Fortunately, there is an effective vaccine for feline panleukopenia virus and it is part of the basic series of vaccines for cats. This vaccine is usually so effective that only a few doses are usually needed for a cat to develop lifelong immunity.
Most vaccination protocols recommend giving at least two doses two to four weeks apart, with the last dose given when the cat is 14-16 weeks old. This vaccination is usually repeated every 1 to 3 years, depending on your cat's lifestyle and the protocols set by your veterinarian. It is important to speak to your veterinarian for further details and advice on vaccination.
All cages, food/water bowls, toys and bedding should be replaced or thoroughly disinfected, as the virus is hardy and can survive for a long time in the affected environment. The virus can live on the hands and clothing of people who come into contact with it, so washing your hands with soap and water after touching an infected cat will minimize transmission to other cats. To ensure safety, unvaccinated cats should not be placed in the presence of a cat with suspected feline panleukopenia.