Although the number of cases of distemper in cats has decreased since the existence of specific vaccines and that we humans who live with these animals have become aware of how important it is take our furry friends to the vet To protect your health, the truth is that it can still happen that a cat may contract this disease.
For this reason, we are going to explain what are the symptoms of distemper in cats, and what you should do to make it happen recover as soon as possible from this terrible disease.
What is distemper?
Distemper, known as feline panleukopenia, is a disease transmitted by a virus found in the environment, so all cats have been exposed at some point in their lives. However, not all of them will develop the disease: depending on whether they have been given the Vaccines or not, and even the capacity of the immune system each of them can be the difference between ending up sick or not.
Feline parvovirus It is eliminated in feces, saliva, urine and secretions and persists in objects and surfaces (beds, litter boxes, clothing), so transmission by fomites is very common. The virus can enter the body of the animal if it has had contact with blood, feces or nasal secretions from another sick feline. Once inside, it attacks and kills the rapidly dividing cells, such as those of the intestine, bone marrow and lymphoid tissue.
What are the symptoms and their treatment?
The most common symptoms are the following:
- Lack of appetite
- Vomiting
- Dehydration
- Nasal secretions
- Apathy
- Fever
- Acute or bloody diarrhea
- Seizures
If your cat has several of these symptoms, You should take him to the vet quickly if you suspect serious diseases in cats to treat it with supportive therapy and, if necessary, antibiotics to prevent complications, as there is no specific treatment for distemper. In addition, it will be very important that you give much affection to your cat, as this will give your furry friend strength to fight the disease.
They may also appear sneezing, eye discharge, abdominal pain, loss of balance and extreme decayIn severe cases, terminal hypothermia and a marked decreased white blood cells (panleukopenia). In pregnant cats, the virus can cause cerebellar hypoplasia in fetuses (ataxia and hypermetria in newborns).
Recommended diagnosis
The veterinarian will confirm the case by combining blood count (leukopenia), stool antigen test ELISA type and, when necessary, PCRBiochemistry helps to detect electrolyte disturbances and dehydration. It is key to differentiate it from other digestive or respiratory infections.
support treatment
There is no curative antiviral; the goal is sustain vital functions while the immune system fights the virus. It is used fluid therapy intravenous, antiemetics (e.g., maropitant or ondansetron), broad spectrum antibiotics to avoid bacterial sepsis, thermal control and early enteral nutrition when possible. Overcoming the first 72h improves the prognosis.
Prevention and hygiene
The best tool is the vaccination (feline triple against panleukopenia, calicivirus and rhinotracheitis) and the isolation of the sick person. Disinfect with diluted bleach 1:32 surfaces and utensils, and extreme hand and clothing hygiene to cut off fomite transmission. Some recovered cats may remove virus temporarily in their feces.
Detect warning signs, come soon to the clinic and apply intensive support measures raises the chances of recovery; keeping the vaccination schedule up-to-date and maintaining rigorous hygiene is the most effective strategy for protecting your cat.
