Where does panleukopenia in cats come from? - briefly
Panleukopenia in cats is caused by the feline parvovirus (FPV), which is highly contagious and can survive in the environment for extended periods. The virus is primarily spread through contact with infected feces or contaminated surfaces, making it crucial to maintain proper hygiene and vaccination protocols to prevent its transmission.
Where does panleukopenia in cats come from? - in detail
Panleukopenia, also known as feline distemper or infectious enteritis, is a highly contagious viral disease that predominantly affects cats, particularly kittens and unvaccinated adult cats. The primary cause of panleukopenia in cats is the feline parvovirus (FPV), a member of the Parvoviridae family. This virus is characterized by its small size, simple structure, and robust ability to survive in various environments.
The transmission of FPV occurs through direct contact with infected cats or indirectly via contaminated surfaces, food, water bowls, bedding, and even clothing or shoes. The virus can remain viable on these surfaces for extended periods, sometimes up to a year, depending on environmental conditions. This durability contributes significantly to the spread of the disease in both domestic and feral cat populations.
Upon entering a cat's body, FPV targets rapidly dividing cells, with a particular affinity for those in the intestinal crypts and bone marrow. The virus replicates within these cells, leading to cell death and disruption of normal tissue function. In the intestines, this results in severe inflammation, ulcerations, and malabsorption, which manifest as symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, and dehydration. The bone marrow damage causes a significant decrease in white blood cells, hence the term "panleukopenia," which translates to a low count of all types of white blood cells. This immunosuppression makes affected cats more susceptible to secondary bacterial infections.
The clinical manifestations of panleukopenia are often severe and can include lethargy, loss of appetite, fever, and neurological signs such as seizures or ataxia, particularly in kittens. The mortality rate is high, especially among unvaccinated young cats, with some reports indicating up to 90% fatality in untreated cases.
Vaccination remains the most effective preventive measure against panleukopenia. Modern vaccines provide broad protection against FPV and related parvoviruses, including canine parvovirus (CPV), which has been known to infect cats as well. Routine vaccination schedules ensure that cats are protected throughout their lives, reducing the risk of contracting the disease and minimizing its spread within cat populations.
In summary, panleukopenia in cats is caused by the feline parvovirus, which is highly transmissible and can persist in the environment for extended periods. The virus targets rapidly dividing cells in the intestines and bone marrow, leading to severe clinical signs and a high mortality rate. Vaccination is crucial for preventing the disease and maintaining the health of both individual cats and the broader cat population.