Known as feline parvovirus is a virus that causes feline panleukopeniaThis disease is quite serious and if left untreated it can end your cat's life in a short time. It affects cats of all ages and is highly contagious.
It is important to know the symptoms and above all to protect your cat with vaccination, since it is the only prevention method. Very small or unvaccinated kittens should avoid contact with other cats until they have all their vaccinations in order not to catch any of the most common diseases in cats.
In this article on our site we will tell you all about feline parvovirus, so you can recognize the symptoms and act correctly in the event of an infection.
What is feline parvovirus?
feline parvovirus is a virus that causes the so-called feline panleukopenia. It is a highly contagious disease and very dangerous for cats. It has also been known as feline infectious enteritis, feline fever or feline ataxia.
The virus is present in the air, in the environment. That is why all cats at some point in their lives will be exposed to it. It is important to vaccinate our cat against this disease, as it is very serious and can cause death. Do not miss our article in which we show you the schedule of vaccinations for cats that you must follow.
The incubation period for parvo virus in cats is 3-6 days, after which the disease will progress for a further 5-7 days, progressively worsening. A quick diagnosis is essential to combat it.
Parvovirus affects normal cell division, causing damage to the bone marrow and intestines. It impairs the immune system, causing a decrease in the number of white blood cells, essential for a response against the disease. Red blood cells also decrease causing anemia and weakness.
Feline parvovirus contagion
Sick cats should be kept isolated as they are highly contagious. Their feces, urine, secretions and even fleas contain the virus.
As we have said before, the virus is in the environment Although the cat is already cured of everything that has come into contact with it is infected. In addition, the virus is very resistant and can remain in the environment for months. In this way, you should clean all the utensils of the infected cat: the litter box, toys and all the areas where he likes to lie down. You can use bleach diluted in water or ask your vet about professional disinfectants.
Feline parvovirus does not affect humans, but we must be extremely hygienic to eliminate the virus from the environment. It is advisable to keep young, sick or unvaccinated cats away from strange cats or cats that have overcome the disease a few months before.
The best way to avoid infections is prevention. Vaccinate your cat against parvovirus.
Feline Panleukopenia Symptoms
The most frequent symptoms of parvovirus in cats are:
- Fever
- Vomiting
- Decay, Fatigue
- Diarrhea
- Bloody stools
- Anemia
Vomiting and diarrhea can be very severe and dehydrate your kitty very quickly. It is essential to act as soon as possible and take our cat to the vet as soon as we observe the first symptoms. Although it is not unusual for a cat to vomit at any given time, feline panleukopenia is characterized by constant vomiting and significant weakness.
Feline panleukopenia treatment
As with other viral diseases, There is no specific treatment for feline parvovirus. It cannot be cured, only alleviating the symptoms and combating dehydration so that the cat overcomes the disease on its own.
Very young kittens or kittens with an advanced state of pathology have a very low survival rate. As soon as you notice symptoms of the disease, see your vet immediately.
Normally hospitalization of the cat is required to provide the appropriate treatment. Dehydration and lack of nutrients will be combated and, most importantly, the spread of other diseases will be avoided. In addition, your body temperature will be controlled.
Because feline parvovirus affects the immune system, infected cats are more likely to contract other bacterial or viral infections. For this reason, we insist on going to the veterinarian, as well as taking extreme precautions to prevent the state of the disease from worsening.
When your cat comes home, have a warm and comfortable place ready for him and give him lots of cuddles until he recovers. Once your feline has overcome the disease, it will become immune to it. But remember to clean all their things to avoid contagion from other cats.
