Overview
Feline distemper, also known as panleukopenia, or FPV (Feline Parvovirus), is a highly contagious disease of cats that affects all body systems containing dividing cells, particularly the digestive system. Besides attacking the intestinal tract, the feline parvovirus (FPV) also attacks the blood system, nervous system, ophthalmic tissues, reproductive system, and the lymph system. It can attack the fetus during pregnancy, causing complications including fetal death or permanent brain damage in the newborn kittens.
At one time, distemper in cats was very common but with the introduction of highly effective vaccines, it is now very rare. Unfortunately, it still occurs in unvaccinated kittens and cats, especially in shelters, on farms and among strays.
Causes of Feline Distemper
Feline panleukopenia is caused by a virus of the parvovirus family, and is similar to the parvovirus that causes severe enteritis (gut inflammation and infection) in dogs. The virus is shed via all body excretions (i.e. saliva, feces, etc.) for up to six weeks after infection and it is very resistant to most disinfectants. In fact, it can survive in the environment for years.