by Marie Kay

Created on: February 09, 2009   Last Updated: February 11, 2009

Feline distemper, also known as feline panleukopenia, is a highly contagious viral infection that can be life-threatening to cats. Feline distemper is caused by feline parvovirus, a virus that is very stable in the environment, and can survive for years at room temperature. The feline parvovirus infects and kills rapidly dividing cells. The virus is transmitted through contact with infected cats and their secretions, or contact with contaminated items such as food bowls, carpeting, bedding, or litter boxes.

Cats afflicted with feline distemper have a high mortality rate. The chances of survival depend greatly on how quickly treatment is administered. If you suspect your cat has been infected, seek medical attention immediately. Below is an overview of feline distemper symptoms and treatment.

1) Physical Symptoms: High fever, vomiting, diarrhea, and severe dehydration are common. Seizures may develop in the more advanced stages of the disease. Symptoms may begin suddenly, and worsen quickly.

2) Behavioral Symptoms: As your cat becomes more ill, you may notice depression, lethargy, and loss of interest in everyday activities, including eating.

3) Diagnosis: A physical exam and blood test will be performed to detect the virus.

4) Treatment: After feline distemper is diagnosed, hospitalization will be necessary. Electrolytes will be administered to combat dehydration, and antibiotics will be issued to fight off infection. In some cases, a blood transfusion may be needed.

5) Prognosis: Although the likelihood of recovery is slim, older cats have a greater chance of survival than young kittens. Prompt medical attention is crucial when dealing with feline distemper. Unfortunately, about 90% of cats diagnosed with feline distemper do not survive.

6) Prevention: Vaccination is the best method of prevention. The feline distemper vaccine is very effective in preventing the disease. Vaccination can begin as early as 6 weeks old. The vaccine will then be administered every 3 weeks until the kitten is 15 weeks old. A booster is recommended at 1 year old, and then every 3 years.

Feline distemper can be devastating, but if your cat is able to survive for 48 hours after symptoms begin, his chances for a full recovery improve greatly. Even after your cat is healthy enough to return home, he will still require plenty of nurturing in order to return to full wellness and strength. He should be kept clean, warm, and strictly isolated from other cats, since the virus continues to shed for up to 6 weeks after recovery.

Once your cat returns to health, the long-term outlook is promising. Most cats that survive feline distemper show no adverse effects after recovery.

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