Feline Panleukopenia Virus (FPV) is a Parvovirus that infects primarily young kittens, but cats of any age are susceptible. For years it had been called feline distemper, perhaps because it was deadly like canine distemper and has a few of the same clinical signs. Nonetheless, it is in fact a member of the Parvo family of viruses and acts in a similar manner in cats as well.

FPV is a very contagious virus; sick animals may spread the virus through feces, urine, saliva, and vomits. In the acute stages of the disease, it has been theorized that fleas and other biting insects may also transmit the disease. Animals who recover may also act as carriers and shed the virus in feces and urine for many months. Another serious consideration with FPV is that it can persist in the environment for up to one year and can resist many disinfectants; the good news is that a dilute solution of Clorox will kill the virus.

Cats infected with FPV get sick. Very sick. Common clinical signs include high fevers, depression, anorexia, vomiting, and diarrhea. Morbidity is also very high, meaning most exposed, unvaccinated cats will catch the disease. Mortality (death) can range anywhere from 25-75% depending upon the virulence of the virus. If kittens are infected prenatally (before birth), the virus attacks a portion of the brain called the cerebellum; ataxia, or severe incoordination is the result. The most common laboratory finding is leukopenia, hence the disease name; this means a very low white blood cell count.

There is no treatment for FPV. Much like that for canine Parvovirus, therapy is supportive and is aimed at correcting dehydration and electrolyte imbalances with intravenous fluids, controlling vomiting and diarrhea, and preventing secondary bacterial infections with antibiotics. If there is any good news about FPV, it is that it can be prevented by vaccines. Vaccinations should begin at around 6-8 weeks of age for kittens; this is the time the maternal antibodies given to a kitten through the motherÕs milk begin to fade. As these antibodies leave, a kitten is again susceptible to the virus. Therefore, vaccination at this time is critical.

FPV is one of a handful of deadly viruses that cause disease and death in cats and kittens. As always, consult your Veterinarian about starting a program of vaccinations to protect your beloved, furry, feline friends!

-Dr. Katherine Dodds, primarily a feline practitioner, practices at Hammocks Veterinary Hospital in Kendall. She is a graduate of the University of Florida and a member of the American Association of Feline Practitioners. She can be reached at (305) 388-0880.