Hundreds of cats in the Dakshina Kannada district of Karnataka, India have died recently due to a life-threatening infectious disease known as Feline Distemper, or Feline Panleukopenia (FPL) virus. This devastating outbreak has prompted veterinary doctors to urge pet owners to vaccinate their cats as a preventive measure against the disease.
The feline panleukopenia virus, which belongs to the parvovirus family, causes a decrease in white blood cells in cats and can be fatal. Symptoms of FPL virus in cats include high fever, vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, anorexia, and dehydration. If left untreated, the disease leads to the death of the cat. Fortunately, FPL virus does not spread to humans or other animals aside from cats.
Veterinary doctors emphasize the importance of vaccination to protect cats from Feline Distemper. Stray and domestic cats are susceptible to FPL infection, and vaccination is the only solution to prevent the disease. Many pet owners usually neglect vaccinating their cats until they become ill, but it is crucial to act proactively to safeguard their health.
To determine whether a cat is infected, owners should observe any changes in behavior and eating habits. Vaccination of cats with Tricat, Feligen, or Felicel is highly recommended. Taking cats for vaccination at nearby private or government veterinary clinics is advised if they show any signs of illness or abnormal behavior.
The DK Veterinary Polyclinic in Mangaluru has seen a significant increase in the number of cats affected by FPL in recent days. Fortunately, with proper treatment, many cats have successfully recovered. Animal Care Trust (ACT), an NGO caring for abandoned stray animals, including cats and dogs, has not reported any cases of FP virus infection among cats, except for a few kittens with mild symptoms, which were promptly treated and are now healthy.
According to Dr. Thammaiah AB, the Deputy Director of the DK Veterinary Polyclinic, Feline panleukopenia (FP) is a highly contagious viral disease caused by the feline parvovirus. Kittens are particularly vulnerable to the virus, which attacks rapidly dividing cells in the bone marrow, intestines, and developing fetus. The primary reservoirs of the Feline Panleukopenia virus are catteries, pet shops, animal shelters, and unvaccinated feral cat colonies.
Preventing Feline Distemper through vaccination is crucial. Kittens should receive their first vaccine between 6 and 8 weeks of age, followed by additional vaccinations until they reach around 16 weeks of age. Adult cats should follow an appropriate vaccination schedule based on their age, health, and the risk of Feline Distemper in their area.
Feline Distemper is highly prevalent in the environment, and virtually all cats are exposed to the virus at some point in their lives. While cats of all ages can be infected, young kittens, sick cats, and unvaccinated cats are at the highest risk. The virus can be shed in a cat’s urine, stool, and nasal secretions, and transmission occurs when susceptible cats come into contact with these secretions or fleas from infected cats. As the virus is resilient and can survive in the environment for up to a year, proper hygiene measures and isolation of infected cats are crucial.
Intensive treatment is necessary to improve the chances of survival for infected kittens, although there is no specific medication to kill the virus. Without supportive care, up to 90% of cats with Feline Distemper may not survive.
In conclusion, vaccination is the only effective preventive method against Feline Distemper. Pet owners should prioritize the health of their cats by vaccinating them to protect them from this devastating disease. Early detection of symptoms, prompt medical attention, and responsible pet care are essential to ensure the well-being of our feline companions.
