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Panleukopenia
Risk of Panleukopenia
- Kittens 3-5 months old are at the highest risk.
- Any unvaccinated or immune-compromised cats are at risk.
What is Panleukopenia
- A highly contagious virus caused by feline parvovirus.
- Panleukopenia is the leading cause of death in cats.
Panleukopenia Symptoms
- Fever
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Severe dehydration
- Anorexia
- Lethargy and depression
Panleukopenia Exposure
- The virus can live for a year in the environment.
- Easily transferred between surfaces such as shoes, clothing, and animal/human to animal contact.
- Virus can be shed in cat urine, stool, and nasal secretion.
Incubation and Shedding
- The incubation period for the virus is 3-7 days.
- Cats can shed the virus before becoming sick.
Panleukopenia Prevention
Proper administration of vaccinations is the best preventative measure.
- Vaccinations given by a veterinarian should begin at 6-8 weeks of age; boosters as recommended by a veterinarian.
- Follow a proper vaccination schedule for both kittens and adult cats.
- Avoid letting your cat outdoors until fully vaccinated.
- Clean and sanitize bedding, bowls, and toys.
- There is no cure for panleukopenia; only supportive care can increase chances of survival.
- Unfortunately, treatment does not always guarantee survival with this highly contagious disease.
- If your cat is sick, consult your veterinarian immediately.