How does feline distemper manifest? - briefly
Feline distemper, also known as panleukopenia, is a highly contagious viral disease that primarily affects cats and kittens. Symptoms typically include lethargy, loss of appetite, fever, vomiting, diarrhea, and in severe cases, neurological issues such as seizures or paralysis.
How does feline distemper manifest? - in detail
Feline distemper, also known as feline panleukopenia virus (FPV), is a highly contagious and often fatal viral disease that affects cats, particularly kittens and unvaccinated adults. The clinical manifestations of feline distemper are multifaceted and can be categorized into several stages: incubation, prodromal, neurological, and recovery or death.
During the incubation period, which typically lasts 2-5 days but can extend up to 7 days, infected cats do not exhibit any visible symptoms. However, the virus is actively replicating within their body, targeting rapidly dividing cells such as those in the intestinal tract and bone marrow.
The prodromal stage marks the onset of clinical signs, which often include lethargy, anorexia (loss of appetite), and depression. These initial symptoms are non-specific and can be mistaken for other illnesses. As the disease progresses, cats may develop a high fever, accompanied by vomiting and diarrhea that can become severe and persistent. The feces often have a distinct, foul odor due to the presence of undigested food and blood.
Neurological signs are another hallmark of feline distemper and usually appear in kittens under 12 weeks old or immunocompromised adults. These symptoms can manifest as seizures, tremors, ataxia (loss of coordination), paralysis, or abnormal behavior such as circling, head tilting, or pacing. The neurological signs are a result of the virus's effects on the central nervous system, leading to inflammation and damage to the brain and spinal cord.
In some cases, affected cats may develop secondary bacterial infections due to the compromised immune system, which can lead to additional symptoms such as pneumonia or skin lesions. The overall prognosis for feline distemper is poor, with a high mortality rate among infected cats, particularly kittens and unvaccinated adults.
The recovery phase depends on the cat's immune response and overall health. Survivors typically require supportive care to manage dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, and nutritional deficiencies. Recovery can be slow and may take several weeks or even months, with some cats exhibiting long-term neurological effects such as seizures or behavioral changes.
Given the severe nature of feline distemper, prevention through vaccination is paramount. Regular veterinary check-ups and adherence to a proper vaccination schedule are essential for protecting cats from this devastating disease.