Panleukopenia in Cats

                     ---------------------

           (parvovirus infection, feline distemper)



                      General Information



Feline distemper is a highly contagious viral disease.  Though it

occurs most often in kittens under 6 months of age, cats of any

age may become infected.  The death rate is highest in young

kittens and old cats.  Signs develop 2-5 days after exposure to

the virus.  The disease runs its course in 2-14 days.  Severe

diarrhea is the most consistent sign of the disease, but fever,

lack of appetite, vomiting, dehydration and profound depression

are also common.  Affected cats often develop secondary pneumonia

because the virus severely depresses the cat's resistance to

other illness.  Cats become infected by direct contact with an

infected cat or its body secretions, especially feces.  The

virus survives in the environment for long periods, so a cat may

become infected merely by visiting an area where an infected cat

has been.  Cats that contract the virus during pregnancy pass it

to their kittens in the uterus.  These kittens may be born with a

brain defect.  All kittens should be vaccinated for feline

distemper, and adult cats should be given yearly booster

vaccinations.



                 Important Points in Treatment



1.  Blood tests are often needed to diagnose feline distemper and

    monitor the response to treatment.  Hospitalization is

    frequently necessary for proper treatment.



2.  Give all medication as directed.  Call the doctor if you

    cannot give the medication.



3.  Diet:  Follow the instructions checked.



    ____Feed the normal diet.



    ____A special diet is required.  Feed as follows:





4.  Water:  Follow the instructions checked.



    ____Encourage water intake.



    ____Allow ready access to fresh water at all times.



    ____Restrict water intake as follows:





5.  Exercise:  Keep your cat indoors and quiet until fully

    recovered.  Do not allow frequent handling or active play.



6.  Isolation:  Do not allow your cat to contact other cats for

    _____ weeks.  Promptly dispose of all feces, and thoroughly

    clean all feeding utensils.



       Notify the Doctor if Any of the Following Occur:



    * Your cat continues to have diarrhea or vomit.



    * Your cat refuses to eat or shows increasing depression or

    weakness.



    * Your cat's signs return after an apparent recovery.



    * Your cat develops new signs.