2: Feline Panleukopenia (Feline Distemper)

2: Feline Panleukopenia (Feline Distemper)

Feline panleukopenia, also known as feline distemper, is a highly contagious viral disease in cats. Kittens are most at risk, and they almost always die — even if given treatment — after contracting the disease. It can spread through bodily fluids, feces and fleas, and is usually transmitted by contaminated food and water bowls, litter trays and clothing.
Feline distemper affects cats’ intestinal tract and attacks their immune systems. Cats suffering from the disease are likely to experience diarrhea, vomiting, dehydration, malnutrition and anemia. Symptoms include depression, loss of appetite, lethargy, and tail and back leg biting. A vet can diagnose feline panleukopenia through fecal and blood tests.
Treatment of feline panleukopenia is aggressive, since the disease can kill within a day of contraction. Cats usually receive blood transfusions, antibiotics and vitamin injections to combat the disease. According to The Merck Veterinary Manual, vets see few cases of feline panleukopenia among vaccinated cats, but infection rates remain high in unvaccinated populations. In order to prevent feline panleukemia, you should vaccinate your cat and keep it away from unvaccinated and feral animals.