Feline Panleukopenia (Cat Parvovirus): Signs and Prevention

Urgent: if a kitten or unvaccinated cat is vomiting, has diarrhoea, stops eating or seems very weak, contact a vet straight away. Kittens can get sick very fast [1][3].

Panleukopenia is one of the most serious infections a cat can catch, and one of the easiest to protect against [1][3]. Here's what every cat owner should know.

What is feline panleukopenia?

• It's a virus, also called feline parvovirus or "feline distemper" [1][3].
• It's highly contagious between cats [1].
• It attacks fast-growing cells, like those in the gut [3].

Can people or dogs catch it?

No. Vets report no known cases of people catching it [1][2], and it doesn't spread to dogs [1]. This is a common misconception, so it's worth saying clearly.

How does it spread?

• Through an infected cat's poop, vomit, urine or nose discharge [1].
• Through things they touched: bedding, litter boxes, bowls and toys [1].
• On people's hands and clothes, and even through fleas [1].

The virus is tough. Without the right disinfectant it can survive indoors for months, even up to a year [1][3].

Which cats are most at risk?

Young kittens, sick cats and unvaccinated cats, especially in shelters, catteries and boarding places [1][2].

What are the signs?

• Vomiting and diarrhoea [1].
• Fever, tiredness and loss of appetite [1].
• Dehydration and belly pain [1].
• In young kittens, sudden death can be the first sign [1][3].

How serious is it?

Very. Even with intensive vet care, 30–50% of sick cats die [2]. Cats that recover are usually protected for life [1].

How do I protect my cat?

Vaccination is the main protection, and it lasts a long time [1][3]. Kittens get a series of vaccines, then boosters as your vet advises [1][2]. Keep new or unvaccinated cats away from others until your vet says it's safe.

Did you know? Kittens infected before birth can grow up wobbly (a condition called cerebellar hypoplasia). It isn't painful, doesn't get worse, and doesn't shorten their lives [1].

FAQ

Can I bring a new kitten home after a case?

The virus can linger for months, so ask your vet about cleaning and timing first [1].

Is it the same as dog parvo?

They're close relatives, and some dog parvovirus types can infect cats [2]. Your cat's vaccines are the protection that matters.

Do indoor cats need the vaccine?

Yes. The virus can come in on shoes, hands and clothes [1].