Feline Panleukopenia (Feline Distemper)
Overview
Panleukopenia is a highly contagious and often fatal viral disease that destroys white blood cells and attacks the intestinal tract.
It is especially dangerous in kittens.
Symptoms
- Severe vomiting
- Bloody diarrhea
- High fever
- Lethargy
- Sudden collapse
- Dehydration
Causes
- Environmental contamination
- Fecal-oral transmission
- Extremely hardy virus in environment
Treatment
- ICU hospitalization
- IV fluids
- Antibiotics
- Anti-nausea medication
- Nutritional support
Prognosis
Good if treated early; high mortality in untreated kittens.
References
- ASPCA
- Cornell Vet