Distemper in Cats

What is Distemper in Cats
Distemper in cats is also known as Panleukopenia and is a viral disease. This is a very contagious and fatal disease especially in kittens and young cats. The feline panlekopenia is a type of parvovirus that is related to the parvovirus in dogs. This is a very fast acting virus that may lead to death of the animal within a few days of infection.

What Causes Distemper in Cats
Distemper is cats as mentioned above is caused by a parvovirus that is similar to dog parvovirus. The virus is carried through the wind, or by other mammals, even shoes and clothing into the house. Thus, even indoor cats are at a greater risk of catching the virus. Panleukopenia is transmitted through all body secretions like feces, vomit, urine, saliva and mucus. Infected cats or food dishes too can transmit the virus to healthy cats. Other modes of transmission include infected beddings, fleas, insect bites, etc. It is very common for cats to catch the virus at kennels, animal shelters and catteries.

Pregnant cats are susceptible to the panleukopenia and the virus can lead to spontaneous abortion in cat. If the cat carries her fetus to full term, the kittens may have developed brain defects. The kittens may stagger and shake and this condition is called cerebellar hypoplasia. The virus invades the body of the cat and affects the lymph nodes, bone marrow and intestines.

What are the Symptoms of Distemper in Cats
About 50 to 90% of the cats contracting the virus die and therefore it is very important to spot the symptoms early on. The symptoms take about 10 days to show up after infection and will quickly progress after this. The symptoms of distemper in cats include:

• Loss of appetite in cats
• Sudden high fever
• Vomiting
• Anorexia
• Bloody diarrhea
• Depression
• Convulsions
• Severe dehydration
• The cat will sit near the water dish, looking thirsty, but will not drink the water.
• The cat bites it own tail, lower back and back legs.
• Anemia

What is the Treatment for Distemper in Cats
There is high mortality rate for distemper in cats. However, with immediate treatment the cat may recover. The first thing to do is the minute you suspect distemper in cats is rush to the vet. The vet may give the cat IV fluids to restore the body fluids and hydrate the cat. Electrolytes may be given to balance the body fluids and antibiotics to treat the secondary infections. The cat will be given anti-vomiting medications to stop the vomiting and reduce dehydration. In rare cases, the vet may advice blood or serum transfusions if the animal does not respond to other treatments.

Prevention of Distemper in Cats
The best way to prevent distemper in cats is vaccination. You need to give a combination shot of FVRCP vaccines to a kitten of about 8 to 10 weeks. The cat needs a booster dose every three years depending on the vaccine given.

Is Distemper in Cats Contagious to Humans
Many pet owners often ask ' is distemper in cats contagious to humans?'. The answer is NO. Dogs and humans cannot be infected by feline parvovirus. However, it can infect raccoons, minks, skunks and otters. Dog parvovirus and feline parvovirus are both non-communicable to humans.

This was some information related to distemper in cats. Parvovirus can survive outside a host body for up to a year. It is not destroyed by freezing or disinfectants easily. Therefore, it is wise to get your cat vaccinated for parvovirus as soon as possible. Good cat care will help keep your pussy healthy and happy. As a responsible owner, what more can you ask for your beloved kitty?