What organs does distemper affect in cats? - briefly
Distemper is a highly contagious viral disease that primarily affects the respiratory and gastrointestinal systems in cats. In severe cases, it can also impact the nervous system, leading to neurological symptoms.
What organs does distemper affect in cats? - in detail
Distemper is a highly contagious viral disease that can significantly impact various organs and systems in cats. The primary target of the feline distemper virus (FDV) is the respiratory system, where it initially replicates after entering the body through the mucous membranes of the nose, eyes, or mouth. However, as the infection progresses, other organs can also become affected.
The gastrointestinal tract is often one of the first systems to show signs of distress following initial respiratory symptoms. The virus can cause inflammation and damage to the intestinal lining, leading to symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, and loss of appetite. In severe cases, this can result in dehydration and weight loss.
The nervous system is another critical area affected by distemper. The virus has a particular affinity for the central nervous system (CNS), where it can cross the blood-brain barrier and cause inflammation and demyelination of neurons. This can result in a range of neurological symptoms, including seizures, paralysis, and changes in behavior such as increased aggression or lethargy. In some cases, the virus may also affect the peripheral nervous system, leading to weakness and loss of coordination.
The lymphatic system is also targeted by the distemper virus, which can lead to a decrease in white blood cells, making the cat more susceptible to secondary infections. This immunosuppression can further complicate the course of the disease and make recovery more challenging.
Additionally, the virus can affect the eyes, causing conjunctivitis or even blindness due to corneal opacity or retinal degeneration. The skin is another organ that may be affected, with symptoms including crusting and scaling around the mucous membranes of the nose, eyes, and mouth.
In summary, feline distemper is a multisystemic disease that can affect the respiratory system, gastrointestinal tract, nervous system, lymphatic system, eyes, and skin in cats. Early detection and treatment are crucial to mitigate the severity of symptoms and improve the chances of recovery.