(Feline Panleukopenia)
Is an infectious viral disease that may particularly hit cats who are not vaccinated or cats who are living in large gatherings such as shelters
The death rate from this disease is high, up to 50% of infected cats, due to a severe decrease in the number of white blood cells that are responsible for defending the body against different diseases, fever, and the lack of appetite.
Symptoms:
fever
General weakness
Lack of appetite
Bloody diarrhea, vomiting, and abdominal pain
In the advanced stages of the disease, it can include hypothermia and neurological symptoms.
-Treatment:
There is no treatment for the virus itself
Therefore, the infected cat is subject to isolation and is given antibiotics to prevent secondary bacterial infection, intestinal antiseptics, anti-vomiting and diarrhea, and intravenous feeding through medical solutions.
To prevent your cat from getting sick, you need to consider the following:
1/ The vaccination should be given on time from the age of two to three months.
It is forbidden to vaccinate pregnant cats unless there is a high risk for them, such as living in crowded breeding places like shelters.
In the event of symptoms such as decreased appetite or fever, you should take your pet to a veterinarian so the disease can be controlled at early stages.
2/ In the event of the cat being infected with the disease, it must be completely isolated from the rest of the cats and should see a veterinarian.
3/ The virus can live on surfaces for up to 6 months, so it must be cleaned well.
4/ The disease is not contagious to humans, but people who deal with infected cats without taking the necessary measures can transmit the infection to other cats and dogs too in rare cases. So precautions must be taken to limit its transmission.
Taking good care of your pet’s vaccinations and examinations prevents serious diseases that may lead to pet loss.
I wish you and your pet a healthy life.
Dr. Ahmed Al-Mushrafi
