Are your cat's shots up to date?
SPRINGFIELD, Ore - An increase in recent cases of feline distemper (Panleukopenia) in cats seen at
Information for concerned pet owners from McKenzie Animal Hospital press release:
· Feline panleukopenia (FP) is a highly contagious viral disease of cats caused by the feline parvovirus
· Symptoms include: generalized depression, loss of appetite, high fever, lethargy, vomiting, severe diarrhea, nasal discharge, and dehydration.
· Infection occurs when cats come in contact with the blood, urine, stool, nasal secretions, or even the fleas from infected cats.
· The virus that causes FP is difficult to destroy and resistant to many disinfectants.
· While cats of any age may be infected with the feline parvovirus that causes FP, young kittens, sick cats, and unvaccinated cats are most susceptible.
· The likelihood of recovery from FP for infected kittens less than eight weeks old is poor. Older cats have a greater chance of survival if adequate treatment is provided early
Veterinarian Brooke Jacoby said you should have your cat vaccinated for Feline Distemper every 1-3 years depending on its lifestyle.
