Distemper in Cats

Distemper in cats, also called feline panleukopenia (FPV) or feline parvo, is a virus that is potentially life-threatening and is easily transmitted from cat to cat as well as by contact with an infected surface or object. The disease affects the blood cells in the intestinal tract, bone marrow, and stem cells. It can lead to anemia and many affected will develop secondary viral and bacterial illnesses. Previously one of the most common causes of death in cats, distemper is now rare due to the effectiveness of vaccines. It appears most commonly in kittens, who can be exposed to it while still in their infected mother's womb, and in vulnerable unvaccinated adult cats such as those who live in feral colonies or whose immune systems are compromised. 

Outdoor cats may be exposed to the panleukopenia virus during contact with wild animals such as foxes, raccoons, or mink. Dogs are not susceptible to feline parvo, and it doesn't pass to humans, but the virus may be carried in their fur, on their hands, or on clothing after contact with an infected animal. 

For cats infected with distemper, prompt treatment and intense supportive care can mean the difference between life and death. If left untreated, there is a very high chance that infected cats will die. Owners who think that their cats are displaying signs of distemper should keep the animal away from other cats and consult with a veterinarian as soon as possible.

The panleukopenia virus causes widespread injury and death to white blood cells, especially in the intestines, bone marrow, and stem cells. Because many of the symptoms of FPL can occur in other feline conditions, it's important to visit your veterinarian to help them arrive at a definitive diagnosis. 

Symptoms of feline distemper include:

• Vomiting
• Diarrhea (sometimes with blood)
• Dehydration
• Excessive sneezing
• Runny nose
• Discharge from eyes
• Loss of appetite and weight loss
• Fever
• Anemia
• Refusal to eat
• Hiding
• Fatigue
• Lack of coordination
• Difficulty walking
• Depression
• Breathing problems

Distemper is caused by contact with infected salvia, nasal discharge, blood, urine, feces, or fleas that have bitten an infected cat. It can be spread from contact with contaminated dishes, bedding, or equipment, and humans can pass it from one cat to another if hands aren’t washed thoroughly after petting an infected cat. The virus can also be carried on shoes and clothing, increasing the chance that it can spread to indoor cats. Kittens can contract the virus in-utero or from the breast milk of an infected mother.

The virus is resistant to disinfectants and can survive for years on contaminated surfaces. Distemper is commonly found where there are many cats in a small area like kennels, pet stores, and feral cat colonies. Similar to the human flu virus, distemper strains vary from year to year. Some years it is more contagious than others, and has varying survival rates. It is also more likely to spread during the warmer months of the year. The virus does not pass between cats and dogs and cannot infect humans.

Distemper signs resemble the signs of several other diseases and may be mistaken for poisoning or ingestion of a foreign object. In order to help prevent misdiagnosis, a veterinarian will need a thorough medical history and details regarding any recent activities that may have caused exposure to the disease.

A physical examination will provide the vet with information about the nature and severity of the cat's symptoms. In addition, the vet will likely order the following laboratory tests: a complete blood count to detect blood cell abnormalities; a biochemical profile to find signs of dehydration or organ failure and to rule out poisoning; fecal tests to look for the virus in stool. False fecal results are possible if the kitty has been vaccinated within the past five to 12 days.

Observation of the feline's ability to ambulate and coordinate their movements is part of the examination, and signs of depression such as hiding away may be seen during the physical exam as well.

There is no medication available that will cure distemper. Veterinary care focuses instead on alleviating symptoms, providing supportive care, and preventing secondary infections.

Symptom management

Symptoms that make the cat uncomfortable or unable to walk, eat, drink, or eliminate waste, are among the first treatment targets. Cat parents should arrange an immediate consultation with a veterinarian if they observe any symptoms  – early detection and treatment will improve the kitty's odds of recovery. 

At the clinic, the vet will prescribe intravenous fluids to combat dehydration and provide nourishment if the cat's appetite is affected, as well as to improve their overall condition and restore strength. They will likely keep the cat in the clinic for a day or two to observe and treat any new symptoms. When the feline no longer needs IVs and intense nursing care, they will be allowed to go home, with some specific instructions for the cat's parents.

Antibiotics will be given at the clinic if the vet suspects the cat is susceptible to secondary infections, or has already developed one.

Supportive care

Care that aims to support the cat while its body is fighting the illness begins in the clinic and continues at home after discharge.  Typically, the purr baby can go home once they don't need  IVs any longer and will eat by mouth.

Other supportive care prescribed by the veterinarian may include hand-feeding, medications to fight vomiting and diarrhea, and provision of a warm, comfortable environment, with the litter box, food, and water bowls nearby for easy access. The cat will likely remain under quarantine for a period of time if there are other cats in the home. Attention and shows of affection by pet parents will help alleviate the purr baby's depression.

Secondary infection prevention

Cats with feline panleukopenia are vulnerable to bacterial and other infections until the virus is eradicated. Respiratory conditions are anticipated and treated initially in the clinic via IV with antibiotics, which may be continued at home as oral medication. It's important to report any signs of infection such as oozing skin lesions, increased eye or nose discharge, wheezing, or shallow panting.

Kittens that are born with distemper or contract it prior to eight weeks of age generally have a poor prognosis. In adult cats, signs may be mild and may go unnoticed. When the immune system is strong and proper treatment is provided, there is a very good chance for full recovery. If a cat survives the first five days, prognosis is very good. Once a cat has recovered, it becomes immune and cannot contract or spread the disease again. 

Recovering cats must be provided a quiet, warm place to rest. The food, water, and litter box should be kept close by so that the cat doesn’t need to exert itself to meet its basic needs. Children and other animals should be kept away from the cat to avoid over-stimulation. Depression (or apathy) is one of the primary signs of distemper, so owners should be sure to provide recovering cats with plenty of affection and physical contact. With proper care, cats typically recover and return to normal within two weeks.

Owners should be careful to thoroughly wash hands and remember that the disease is easily spread and remains on surfaces for long periods of time. Surfaces should be scrubbed down with bleach, and all of the cat’s belongings including food dishes, bedding, toys, and litter box should be thrown away and replaced. If there are other cats in the home, they should be carefully observed for symptoms and owners should consult with their vet regarding vaccination, if not already done.

Distemper can be expensive to treat. If you suspect your cat has distemper or is at risk, start searching for pet insurance today to find the “pawfect” plan for your pet in just a few clicks!

The cost of treating feline distemper averages $1,000 to $1,100.