Cat Panleukopenia
Panleukopenia (pan = all, leuko = white blood cells, Penia = lessening – the destruction of white blood cells) is a highly contagious viral disease. It is seen in all members of the cat family, from house cats to lions. It is not infectious to humans and it does not cause a “bad temper” (distemper). The death rate in in-feted, unvaccinated young cats is very high.
The virus damages body cells, suppress-in the immune response, and allows bacteria to do further damage. The antibiotics kill the bacteria, thus giving the body time to over-whelm the virus and repair the damage. If your cat can be kept alive for a week, the chance for recovery is good.
The virus has a predilection for intestinal cells and bone marrow. Its general signs are high fever (1047 to 105°F), loss of appetite, weakness, vomiting, and diarrhea (sometimes bloody). Since these signs are so similar to those of other serious problems, such as leukemia, toolbars, some poisonings, and intestinal obstructions, an immediate visit to your veterinarian is essential.
The virus is spread by direct contact with the saliva, vomit, urine, or feces of an ill cat. The virus is very hardy, and most disinfectants are ineffective in destroying it. No drug specifically kills the virus.
Cat Antelope Home Remedies
Your doctor may ask you to be an active partner in helping your cat get well because good nursing care is as important to recovery as the antibiotics and fluids that your veterinarian will administer. It is important to provide both adequate nutrition (to maintain body condition and to help fight infection) and fluids (to prevent dehydration, primarily from vomiting and diarrhea).
Your cat may not feel like eating or drinking, but small, frequent feedings of raw egg yolks or cooked eggs, milk, strained baby foods, and boiled chicken will help with the nutrition. Water, milk, and chicken broth will help with the fluids.
Most cats with phalarope should be treated because the majority will survive. Good nursing care, good veterinary care, patience, love, and understanding can be very rewarding.
Cat Panleukopenia Treatment
Since the signs of panleukopenia are similar to those of other diseases, blood tests, and X-rays may be necessary for diagnosis and for determining the proper treatment regimen. Of course, a complete physical examination will be done. Your doctor may suggest home care and possibly frequent veterinary visits as the best treatment plan. Antibiotics, fluids, anti-vomiting, antidiarrheals, vitamins, and sometimes blood transfusions are needed to help your cat recover.
Prevention
The kitten series of vaccinations should begin at seven to nine weeks of age, with the last one given at twelve to sixteen weeks of age. Yearly boosters are needed to keep up the antibody level and to keep the body’s “memory system” on guard.
See more: Cat Lumps
