Go to a clinic immediately if
- A kitten or unvaccinated cat stops eating or drinking, vomits repeatedly, becomes profoundly weak or cold, or loses consciousness
- Sudden profound lethargy or complete refusal of food and water in a kitten is urgent even before diarrhea begins
Possible signs
- Marked lethargy, refusal of food, fever, repeated vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain or signs of dehydration
- Dry gums, sunken eyes, abdominal pain and feeling cold may signal severe dehydration and shock
What it is
Feline panleukopenia, or feline parvoviral infection, is highly contagious and often fatal. The virus damages rapidly dividing cells in bone marrow, lymphoid tissue and intestinal lining, reducing white blood cells and weakening defense against infection. Severe disease can rapidly cause dehydration, shock and secondary bacterial infection; sudden death can occur in kittens.
What to expect at the veterinarian
The clinic should assess the cat in isolation from other animals. Diagnosis may include a complete blood count, a point-of-care test and other investigations. There is no specific antiviral cure; seriously ill cats often need intensive supportive care with intravenous fluids, nausea control, nutritional support, antimicrobials when indicated and close monitoring. Earlier intervention improves the chance of survival but cannot guarantee it.
Sources
- Guideline or consensus statement. Feline Panleukopenia Virus
- Guideline or consensus statement. Feline Panleukopenia
- Guideline or consensus statement. 2024 guidelines for the vaccination of dogs and cats