Feline Panleukopenia Virus (FPV)

Feline panleukopenia is a highly contagious and potentially fatal disease in cats, caused by the feline parvovirus (FPV) that affects both the immune system and gastrointestinal tract and can survive in the environment for months. It is spread via direct contact with infected cats or indirectly through contaminated environments. The virus is found in faeces, vomit, and saliva. People, food bowls, clothing, and beddings can carry the virus between cats. At one stage the disease was considered extremely rare, however, it is making a comeback as more cats are now being diagnosed with it. Although it is generally is a disease of kittens and young cats, adults can also succumb to the disease.

Clinical signs

Clinical signs develop within 2–10 days of exposure and can be a combination of fever, lethargy, loss of appetite, vomiting, and diarrhoea. The vomiting and diarrhoea can be sudden, severe, frequent and often bloody.

Diagnosis

This is based on clinical signs and laboratory tests and specific faecal tests to detect the virus.

Treatment

There is no specific antiviral treatment and treatment is supportive – intravenous fluids, anti-nausea and anti-diarrhoeal medications, antibiotics to prevent secondary infections, and nutritional support.

Prognosis

With early treatment there is a 60–90% survival rate; however, without treatment: mortality is very high, especially in kittens.

Prevention

Vaccination is of utmost importance, which is done as part of the kitten vaccination schedule with boosters given over the cat’s life. Unfortunately vaccination is no guarantee that a cat will not get the disease; however, it is generally milder and less fatal.

As the disease is spread by contact, good hygiene and quarantine of new or sick cats plays an important role. Contaminated areas need to be disinfect with bleach-based cleaners.

When to seek veterinary attention

· A cat showing any of the above mentioned clinical signs.

· A kitten under 6 months that is lethargic or not eating.

· Sudden onset of severe vomiting and diarrhoea, especially in any cat that has not been vaccinated.