how to treat distemper in cats at home

how to treat distemper in cats at home

It also attacks the bone marrow and lymph nodes, resulting in shortages of all types of white blood cells (panleukopenia) and of red blood cells (anemia). Typically, the purr baby can go home once they don't need IVs any longer and will eat by mouth. Feline panleukopenia can look like many other conditions, such as feline leukemia or feline immunodeficiency virus. Outdoor cats may be exposed to the panleukopenia virus during contact with wild animals such as foxes, raccoons, or mink. He looks like he's staring into space and his breathing seems normal but a small fast pace. In adult cats that have a strong immune system or are vaccinated, they may contact the virus but keep it in check and not become ill. It is most commonly seen in cats 3-5 months of age; death from FP is more common at this age. Although antibiotics do not kill the virus, they are often necessary because infected cats are at a higher risk of bacterial infections because their immune systems are not fully functioning (due to the decreased white blood cells) and because bacteria from the damaged gut may enter the cats bloodstream and cause infection. Luckily, there is a vaccine for feline panleukopenia virus, and it is part of the core vaccine series for cats. Shock. It is also possible for kittens to receive temporary immunity through the transfer of antibodies in the colostrum the first milk produced by the mother. Inappetence Hypersalivation (nausea) Vomiting Diarrhea Sudden death It is difficult to know if a cat has a fever at home, but the vet will usually confirm a high fever as well. Protect yourself and your pet. Canine Distemper Virus (CDV) is caused by a highly contagious organism in the Morbillivirus genus, Paramyxoviridae family. She has worked with almost every species, dogs, cats, rabbits, guinea pigs, birds, reptiles, amphibians, and even horses and mice all are welcome. Consult your veterinarian for advice on an appropriate vaccination schedule for your cat(s). An Introduction to Feline Distemper. The rate of this cancer is low, occurring in less than 1 in 10,000 cats, and was initially thought to have occurred due to . Depression (or apathy) is one of the primary signs of distemper, so owners should be sure to provide recovering cats with plenty of affection and physical contact. Bring your kitten back for boosters once every 34 weeks until they are old enough. At the clinic, the vet will prescribe intravenous fluids to combat dehydration and provide nourishment if the cat's appetite is affected, as well as to improve their overall condition and restore strength. So, a cat can be directly exposed cat to cat or can pick it up in the environment. From there, the cat gets extremely sick quickly . This is the part that coordinates balance and movement. False fecal results are possible if the kitty has been vaccinated within the past five to 12 days. Affected cats who do not receive treatment typically die from dehydration or secondary infections. A veterinarian can confirm canine and feline distemper by checking the pet's symptoms and with a blood test. He won't stand but is gently moving his tail. Their food, water, and litter box should all be kept close by and easily accessible. Discuss vaccination with your veterinarian for more details and recommendations. Antibiotics are usually given by injection as the gut is compromised by the sickness and diarrhea. It is, therefore, very important to isolate infected cats. Symptoms of feline distemper include: Distemper is caused by contact with infected salvia, nasal discharge, blood, urine, feces, or fleas that have bitten an infected cat. It is closely related to canine parvovirus (often confused as it is not related to the canine distemper virus). Dehydration is treated with aggressive intravenous fluid therapy while clinical signs of vomiting and diarrhea are treated with prescription medications. The FP virus causes damage to the cells that line the intestines. Keep track of product alerts for pet foods, animal feed, and products used by veterinarians or animal owners. Feline distemper, or panleukopenia, is caused by a virus that almost every cat comes into contact with early in their life. However, antibiotics are not used to treat and clear the actual virus. Kittens can also be infected in utero or via breast milk when feeding from their mother. It is also more likely to spread during the warmer months of the year. Get best-in-class CE in some of your favorite cities. The first visible signs an owner might notice include generalized depression, loss of appetite, high fever, lethargy, vomiting, severe diarrhea, nasal discharge, and dehydration. Feline distemper virus is found everywhere in the environment; it is strong and can live for years. Pet Insurance covers the cost of many common pet health conditions. Cat Nail Biting: What to Do If Your Cat Chews & Pulls His Claws, Why Is My Kitten So Hyper? They will likely keep the cat in the clinic for a day or two to observe and treat any new symptoms. Any kitten showing signs of fever, vomiting, diarrhea, depression, and a decreased appetite is a feline panleukopenia suspect. The virusesdonot infect people. The human virus norovirus, which causes a brief but unpleasant gastrointestinal disease, is also a member of the Caliciviridae family. 1 Feline distemper is a life-threatening disease caused by the feline parvovirus. Canine distemper is a sometimes fatal virus that can infect a dog at any age, especially puppies if they are not vaccinated or not yet fully protected by a vaccination. The AVMA, 2023 American Veterinary Medical Association All rights reserved, Donate to American Veterinary Medical Foundation (AVMF), AVMA Congressional Advocacy Network (CAN). Adult cats with unknown vaccine history should be given an initial dose, then a booster in 3-4 weeks, then 1 year later, then every 3 years thereafter. Facial or whole-body itching. Theres no better place to network, learn, and meet up with the friends and colleagues who make veterinary medicine so rewarding. The panleukopenia virus infects dividing or multiplying cells. Yes, veterinarians use these terms interchangeably, though feline distemper is incorrect since feline panleukopenia is actually caused by feline parvovirus. Feline panleukopenia (FP) is a highly contagious viral disease of cats caused by the feline parvovirus. Symptoms of FDV include fever, runny nose, watery eyes, and . Feline Panleukopenia Virus, otherwise known as Feline Distemper, is a highly contagious, life-threatening infectious disease in cats. Feline distemper is a condition caused by the panleukopenia virus (FPV). Regards Dr Callum Turner DVM. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you. Cat Schranz is organizing this fundraiser. Cats will need intensive treatment and ICU care. Feline distemper virus (FDV) is a highly contagious and often deadly viral disease that affects cats. Kittens are most severely affected by the virus. Distemper doesn't just affect dogs. The virus can also be carried on shoes and clothing, increasing the chance that it can spread to indoor cats. With proper care, cats typically recover and return to normal within two weeks. The names feline distemper and feline parvoshould not be confused with canine distemper or canine parvo although their names are similar, they are caused by different viruses. It appears most commonly in kittens, who can be exposed to it while still in their infected mother's womb, and in vulnerable unvaccinated adult cats such as those who live inferal coloniesor whose immune systems are compromised. Kittens infected in the womb during the late stages of pregnancy may develop cerebellar hypoplasia once born, a condition where the virus affects the formation of a part of the brain called the cerebellum. The feline panleukopenia virus infects and kills the rapidly growing and dividing cells in the body, including cells in the bone marrow, intestines, and skin, and in a developing fetus. Because the immune system is infected the white blood cell count will be low. Hello, if your cat is not responding normally, it would be best for him to see a vet tonight. It's important to report any signs of infection such as oozing skin lesions, increased eye or nose discharge, wheezing, or shallow panting. What Is Feline Panleukopenia? Get the latest updates on your choice of veterinary topics delivered straight to your inbox. In adult cats, signs may be mild and may go unnoticed. Every cat should have their own. The goal of veterinary treatment is to treat the symptoms of the illness while the body does its work to fight off viral infection. Since feline panleukopenia is hardy and can remain in the affected environment for a long time, all cages, food/water bowls, toys and bedding should be replaced or thoroughly disinfected. Treatment for feline distemper typically includes a combination of supportive care and antiviral medications. Feline distemper virus is found everywhere in the environment; it is strong and can live for years. If your cat is very sick, you may have to approve emergency treatment, including intravenous fluids and plasma or blood transfusions. The treatment will be unique to your cat and its needs. Yes, lifelong immunity develops if the cat is treated in the initial stages of infection and responds well to therapies. If the cat survives for five days, its chances for recovery are greatly improved. Without them, the cat is vulnerable to spreading the virus. Luckily, an infected cat only sheds the virus for a day or two, but since the virus is very stable in the environment, it can live for years. It is an RNA virus, similar to that responsible for canine Parvovirus. Yes, if treated in the initial stages of the infection. However, even after the carrier is no longer contagious, the virus can survive on surfaces for a long time and is unaffected by many household cleaners, except bleach.. These extremely ill cats have a poor prognosis and, on average, will pass away within 12-24 hours. Lymph nodes Tonsils Bone marrow Spleen Tissues Skin Respiratory tract Kidney Liver Brain Spinal cord Here are the outward symptoms of distemper in puppies: Symptoms Discharge from nose and eyes Fever Cracked/thickened skin Loss of appetite and diarrhea Are There Other Diseases with Similar Signs? Although there's no specific treatment for distemper, the veterinarian will provide support with fluid therapy and symptomatic treatment. Antibiotics will be given at the clinic if the vet suspects the cat is susceptible to secondary infections, or has already developed one. Distemper is caused by the canine distemper virus (CDV). Without such supportive care, up to 90% of cats with FP may die. In addition, the vet will likely order the following laboratory tests: a complete blood count to detect blood cell abnormalities; a biochemical profile to find signs of dehydration or organ failure and to rule out poisoning; fecal tests to look for the virus in stool. Other supportive care prescribed by the veterinarian may include hand-feeding, medications to fight vomiting and diarrhea, and provision of a warm, comfortable environment, with the litter box, food, and water bowls nearby for easy access. The virus that causes FP is difficult to destroy and resistant to many disinfectants. How to Treat Feline Panleukopenia (Distemper), http://www.peteducation.com/article.cfm?c=1+2139&aid=222, https://www.vetmed.wsu.edu/outreach/Pet-Health-Topics/categories/common-problems/diarrhea, http://www.merckvetmanual.com/mvm/generalized_conditions/feline_panleukopenia/overview_of_feline_panleukopenia.html, https://www.petfinder.com/pro/for-shelters/preventing-feline-panleukopenia/, tratar la panleucopenia felina (moquillo). After tending to your cat, though, be sure to wash your hands thoroughly and change your clothes.. Clinical signs of feline distemper include diarrhea (with or without blood), depression, lethargy, dehydration, painful abdomen, vomiting, or in more severe cases, collapse or even death. Unvaccinated cats who come into contact with contaminated surfaces, such as bedding, cages, food dishes, litter boxes, and other surfaces, are at risk of contracting the virus, even if they dont come into contact with an infected cat. By clicking Subscribe, I agree to the WebMD. They may fall frequently or seem uncoordinated. The virus is very hardy, meaning it can survive for 12 months in the environment, and is resistant to many common disinfectants. Feline distemper can be mistaken for other illnesses. The names feline distemper and feline parvo should not be confused with canine distemper or canine parvo although their names are similar, they are caused by different viruses. A cat carrying feline distemper virus will shed viral particles into the environment through feces, urine, saliva and vomit. Affected kittens will have mild to severe intention tremors and a wide-based stance. It is difficult to know if a cat has a fever at home, but the vet will usually confirm a high fever as well. The virus spreads quickly and is fatal, if left untreated. Unvaccinated or incompletely vaccinated dogs and especially puppies are at highest risk. Attention and shows of affection by pet parents will help alleviate the purr baby's depression. Feline panleukopenia is suspected when exposure history is correlated with very low white blood cells and possibly low red blood cells (anemia). In addition to giving your cat its prescribed medication, you should keep your cat warm with a heating pad or extra layers in its bed, since sick animals are prone to hypothermia. Finding blood for blood transfusions in the cat can be difficult but where the clinic has the resources to source a blood donor and match blood types, a blood transfusion can be life saving. This often includes the immune system and the lining of the GI tract in particular. Kittens are most severely affected by the virus. It mostly affects kittens and unvaccinated cats, and it can be fatal if not appropriately diagnosed and treated. Once a cat has recovered, it becomes immune and cannot contract or spread the disease again. Excessive sneezing If your cat is infected, she may have sneezing fits that last for long periods of time. In the past, feline panleukopenia (FP) was a leading cause of death in cats. Without examining Martin I cannot say what the specific cause of the symptoms are, you should visit a Veterinarian for an examination to be on the safe side if there is no improvement; diarrhoea and weight loss may be attributable to many different conditions which may include infections, parasites, foreign objects, poisoning, stress, dietary changes among other conditions. It has also been called cat fever, cat plague, feline agranulocytosis, and feline infectious enteritis., Regardless of what you call it, though, it is a highly contagious disease spread among cats and found practically everywhere in the environment. Canine distemper is a contagious and serious disease caused by a virus that attacks the respiratory, gastrointestinal and nervous systems of puppies and dogs. Cats become infected with this virus in utero due to their mother becoming infected while pregnant or being exposed to it in their environment. Due to the variability, the vaccinations should begin with an initial round at 6 to 8 weeks of age. These extremely ill cats have a poor prognosis and, on average, will pass away within 12-24 hours. In young kittens, the virus can also damage the brain and the eyes. Next, the intestine is affected, becoming ulcerated, and the cat gets severe diarrhea and sometimes vomiting. This reduces the risk of blood pooling on one side of the body, which can induce a form of pneumonia. Infected cells in the intestines eventually lead to diarrhea, decreased appetite and vomiting. Because the virus impedes the immune system kittens are often susceptible to secondary infections, so they can easily be infected with other viruses or bacteria. This is called passive immunity, and how long it protects the kittens from infection depends upon the levels of protective antibodies produced by the mother. The incubation period from being in contact with the virus to developing clinical signs is approximately four to five days. That is why it is common for cats to become infected due to their environment. The virus suppresses the production of all white blood cells in the bone marrow. The likelihood of recovery from FP for infected kittens less than eight weeks old is poor. This vaccination is usually repeated every one to three years, depending on your cats lifestyle and the protocols set by your veterinarian. Previously one of the most common causes of death in cats, distemper is now rare due to the effectiveness of vaccines. They may seem depressed and present a high fever, vomiting, severe diarrhea, and nasal discharge.. These types of cells can be found in many places, including bone marrow, the intestinal tract, skin, and the stem cells of a developing fetus. By providing intensive supportive therapy the body will hopefully have a chance to fight off the infection. Attend topical CE meetings on subjects including animal welfare, wellbeing, economics, and public policy. The disease affects the blood cells in the intestinal tract, bone marrow, and stem cells. Plasma or blood transfusions: With severe cases, the cat can lose a dangerous amount of blood and become profoundly anemic and also protein depleted. By using our site, you agree to our. Feline panleukopenia can look like many other conditions, such as feline leukemia or feline immunodeficiency virus. So, it can easily be picked up on your shoes or clothing and brought indoors to your cat. Kittens can also be infected in utero or via breast milk when feeding from their mother. "Feline distemper (aka feline panleukopenia) is a highly contagious and life-threatening viral infection caused by parvovirus," Wooten says. A thorough medical history can be helpful with diagnosis, especially if your cat was recently adopted, has been outdoors frequently, is unvaccinated, and/or has been around other cats. Observation of the feline's ability to ambulate and coordinate their movements is part of the examination, and signs of depression such as hiding away may be seen during the physical exam as well. Treatment has only just recently been found however the vet has quoted me a combined $5000 for treatment, vet appointments, and other related bills. Today, it is anuncommon disease, due in large part to the availability and use of very effective vaccines. Infected cats may even show signs that resemble those seen when a cat has been poisoned or has swallowed a foreign object. Care that aims to support the cat while its body is fighting the illness begins in the clinic and continues at home after discharge. Feline distemper (feline panleukopenia) affects cells in your cat's body that grow and divide very quickly. However, it's important to isolate the infected cat completely if by chance your other cats are not infected. Some years it is more contagious than others, and has varying survival rates. To ensure safety, unvaccinated cats should not be placed in an environment frequented by a cat with suspected feline panleukopenia. A thorough medical history can be helpful with diagnosis, especially if your cat was recently adopted, has been outdoors frequently, is unvaccinated, and/or has been around other cats. It mostly affects kittens and unvaccinated cats, and it can be fatal if not appropriately diagnosed and treated. Difficulty breathing Vomiting Diarrhea Loss of appetite Thickening of nose and foot pads Pneumonia Skin sores Pain Canine distemper may also cause brain inflammation and neurological symptoms,. The cost of treating feline distemper averages $1,000 to $1,100. Prevention is vital to your cats health. Wrap Your Cat in An Old Sock. Cats can shed the virus in their urine, stool, and nasal secretions; infection occurs when susceptible cats come in contact with these secretions, or even the fleas from infected cats. Severe dehydration ensues and the safety barrier between the intestines and the rest of the body breaks down, leading to secondary bacterial infections. While it is life-threatening, cats who survive will become immune to a subsequent infection., The number of deaths related to feline distemper has decreased over the years, thanks to advancements in veterinary medicine and effective vaccinations. The feline panleukopenia virus infects and kills the rapidly growing and dividing cells in the body, including cells in the bone marrow, intestines, and skin, and in a developing fetus. As a full-time student, this is hard for me financially . Due to the extreme nature of feline distemper, though, its important that its properly diagnosed., Your veterinarian will ask for a complete history of your pets health and how the symptoms have manifested. Your participation makes AVMA a stronger advocate for our profession. If youve had a cat who was infected with feline distemper and plan to introduce another kitten to your home, youre advised to clean your home thoroughly with products that are able to eliminate any parvovirus (like bleach). Cats become infected with this virus in utero due to their mother becoming infected while pregnant or being exposed to it in their environment. It is a severe illness that often requires your kitten to stay in the hospital for days, and its very possible that your kitten may not survive. Your cat will need to be showered with affection during this time, especially since they will be isolated from the rest of the house. 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