Feline distemper is a highly contagious and potentially fatal disease that affects cats. The condition is caused by the feline panleukopenia virus (FDV), which infects and destroys certain types of cells in a cat’s body. Cats of all ages can contract feline distemper, although it is most common in young kittens with underdeveloped immune systems.
Causes of Feline Distemper
Cats that are exposed to the feline panleukopenia virus are at risk of contracting feline distemper. This often happens when healthy cats come into contact with urine, feces, saliva, blood, or other bodily fluids from an infected cat. The virus can survive for a long time in the environment, contaminating surfaces and items such as litter boxes and bedding.
Symptoms of Feline Distemper
Symptoms of feline distemper can vary, and often mirror those of other conditions. Please visit your veterinarian immediately if your cat displays any of the following signs and symptoms of feline distemper.
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Weight loss
- Lethargy
- Fever
- Anemia
- Dehydration
- Bloody stools
- Depression
- Collapse
Diagnosis of Feline Distemper
Your veterinarian will assess your cat’s medical history and ask you a series of questions about the onset of their symptoms. A complete physical examination will then be performed, along with diagnostic tests such as a complete blood count, biochemistry profile, and urinalysis. These tests will help your veterinarian rule out other underlying conditions and assess your pet’s overall health.
Diagnosis of feline distemper will usually be made based on clinical signs such as a low white blood cell count. More advanced testing of blood or other bodily fluids may also be recommended to reach a definitive diagnosis of the condition.
Treatment of Feline Distemper
There is no known cure for feline distemper. Cats with the disease will usually need to be hospitalized so they can receive aggressive treatment such as fluid therapy to help stabilize their condition. Unfortunately, feline distemper is often fatal despite treatment. However, it is possible for cats with a strong immune system to make a full recovery.
Cats recovering from feline distemper will need to be isolated from other cats to prevent the spread of the disease. Your veterinarian will also advise you on nutritional support and home care to help your cat regain their health.
Prevention of Feline Distemper
Since feline distemper is highly contagious, it can be difficult to prevent your cat from coming into contact with it. The best way to protect your pet is by vaccinating them against the feline panleukopenia virus. For this reason, the feline distemper vaccine is considered a core vaccine that should be administered to kittens and kept up to date with boosters throughout a cat’s lifetime.
The feline distemper vaccine is typically given in a combination vaccine that also protects your cat from other diseases. Please consult with your veterinarian to discuss vaccination options to protect your cat.
