Some diseases that cats can suffer are characterized by a decrease in white blood cells, also called leukocytes. These are some of the most important cells in the body, since they are in charge of fighting microorganisms that cause diseases.
But what are the causes of leukopenia in cats? I'll answer that for you below.
What are the causes of leukopenia?
Leukopenia, or a drop in white blood cells, is a sign of trouble. The body's defenses are weakened , and that's precisely what viruses, bacteria, and fungi that cause disease want. They won't hesitate for a minute to enter the body and multiply while destroying it.
It is worth knowing that not only cats can suffer a decrease in leukocytes, but also other animals such as dogs or humans for example. In the case of felines, the main causes are:
Feline panleukopenia
It is a highly contagious disease (among cats) very common in young and unvaccinated animals, also known as feline infectious enteritis. It is transmitted by a parvovirus that multiplies in both the digestive tract and bone marrow.
The infected cat excretes it with the stool and any other liquid, which allows the virus to come into contact with other cats very easily, since it is also capable of living up to a year in the environment.
How is it spread?
For a cat to become infected, it must come into direct contact with any bodily fluids from an infected cat or with the cat itself . Indirect transmission is also possible, for example, by using the same food and water bowls as the infected cat.
What are the symptoms?
The symptoms are: depression, loss of appetite and weight, vomiting, lethargy, high fever, diarrhea and dehydration. If it is not treated in time, it is difficult for them to be saved.
Treatment and Prevention
Treatment focuses on managing symptoms , often requiring hospitalization. The animal is given antibiotics, fluids for dehydration, and, if necessary, a blood transfusion.
To prevent it, there is nothing like having the vaccination schedule up to date. If we have a sick cat, we will keep it separate from the rest to avoid contagion.
Feline AIDS or Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (IFV)
It is a disease caused by a virus that slowly attacks a cat's immune system. Any unvaccinated cat can become infected, so those living on the streets are at greater risk.
How is it spread?
It's usually transmitted through saliva , specifically when one cat bites another. But it could also be transmitted through blood transfusions, although this is very rare.
What are the symptoms?
Sick felines can have any of these symptoms: fever, gingivitis, stomatitis, diarrhea, miscarriages, infertility, loss of appetite, or inflammation of the connective tissue.
Treatment and Prevention
The treatment consists of controlling existing symptoms and preventing new ones from appearing . Therefore, you will be given antibiotics, anti-inflammatories, and, if you have a fever, antipyretics.
But it is better to prevent it with a vaccine.
Chemotherapy
The medications used can damage the bone marrow , which is the "factory" of white blood cells. A cat may need chemotherapy to treat cancer, for example.
How to take care of it?
If your cat is undergoing chemotherapy, it's very important to follow the veterinarian's advice . Give them high-quality food, rich in animal protein, and lots of love.
What are the symptoms of leukopenia?
The symptoms of leukopenia in cats will depend largely on the cause, but the most common are:
- General discomfort
- Loss of appetite and / or weight
- Vomiting and / or diarrhea
- Apathy
- Lethargy
Can leukopenia in cats be prevented?
No disease can be 100% prevented, but if cats receive the necessary vaccinations from kittenhood and are fed a high-quality, grain-free diet, it will be easy to strengthen their immune system . Good nutrition is vital for their health, ensuring a strong and healthy immune system that allows them to fight off illnesses.
It's important to understand that even the best care in the world won't prevent them from getting sick from time to time. That's normal: they're living beings, and sometimes they'll get a cold, or even the flu. It's perfectly normal: it happens to humans too, no matter how well we take care of ourselves. But if we make sure they're well, we'll certainly see that reflected in their health.
Furthermore, they need to be given love and cared for as they deserve, that is, with respect and patience. In this way, they will also be very happy.
And in the event that we suspect that he is unwell, we will take them to the vet as soon as possible. Do not wait to see if they improve on their own, since cats are animals that when they express their pain or discomfort, they usually have been suffering it for a long time. So do not hesitate to consult a professional.
I hope you find it useful.