Caused by the feline parvovirus, feline distemper, or panleukopenia, is a serious and potentially fatal disease. In its most severe form, feline distemper kills the white blood cells that fight off disease and infection. The disease also can destroy the cat's digestive tract, preventing the intestines from digesting food and absorbing liquids and nutrients. Vomiting and diarrhea can result in severe or fatal dehydration. In addition, affected cats can succumb to secondary bacterial infections because of the reduced number of white blood cells. Because their immune systems are not fully functional, kittens and cats with impaired immune systems are more likely to show severe signs or die from the disease. Healthy, mature cats may show only mild or no symptoms at all.
Newborn kittens that contract panleukopenia while within the mother's uterus have a very different response to the disease. They may develop permanent brain damage and have a hard time walking and maneuvering, but they often survive.
There is no cure for panleukopenia; thus, treatment is in the form of supportive care. Dehydration can be alleviated through the use of fluids administered in the vein or below the skin. Antibiotics can be given to treat secondary bacterial infections. Most importantly, an effective vaccine is available that will prevent the disease's transmission.
