What is Distemper?
Distemper in cats, also called feline panleukopenia (FPV) or feline parvo, is a virus that is potentially life-threatening and is easily transmitted from cat to cat as well as by contact with an infected surface or object. The disease affects the blood cells in the intestinal tract, bone marrow, and stem cells. It can lead to anemia and many affected will develop secondary viral and bacterial illnesses. Previously one of the most common causes of death in cats, distemper is now rare due to the effectiveness of vaccines. It appears most commonly in kittens, who can be exposed to it while still in their infected mother's womb, and in vulnerable unvaccinated adult cats such as those who live in feral colonies or whose immune systems are compromised.
Outdoor cats may be exposed to the panleukopenia virus during contact with wild animals such as foxes, raccoons, or mink. Dogs are not susceptible to feline parvo, and it doesn't pass to humans, but the virus may be carried in their fur, on their hands, or on clothing after contact with an infected animal.
For cats infected with distemper, prompt treatment and intense supportive care can mean the difference between life and death. If left untreated, there is a very high chance that infected cats will die. Owners who think that their cats are displaying signs of distemper should keep the animal away from other cats and consult with a veterinarian as soon as possible.
Distemper Average Cost
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Average Cost
$1,100
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Symptoms of Distemper in Cats
The panleukopenia virus causes widespread injury and death to white blood cells, especially in the intestines, bone marrow, and stem cells. Because many of the symptoms of FPL can occur in other feline conditions, it's important to visit your veterinarian to help them arrive at a definitive diagnosis.
Symptoms of feline distemper include:
Symptoms of feline distemper include:
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea (sometimes with blood)
- Dehydration
- Excessive sneezing
- Runny nose
- Discharge from eyes
- Loss of appetite and weight loss
- Fever
- Anemia
- Refusal to eat
- Hiding
- Fatigue
- Lack of coordination
- Difficulty walking
- Depression
- Breathing problems
Causes of Distemper in Cats
Distemper is caused by contact with infected salvia, nasal discharge, blood, urine, feces, or fleas that have bitten an infected cat. It can be spread from contact with contaminated dishes, bedding, or equipment, and humans can pass it from one cat to another if hands aren’t washed thoroughly after petting an infected cat. The virus can also be carried on shoes and clothing, increasing the chance that it can spread to indoor cats. Kittens can contract the virus in-utero or from the breast milk of an infected mother.
The virus is resistant to disinfectants and can survive for years on contaminated surfaces. Distemper is commonly found where there are many cats in a small area like kennels, pet stores, and feral cat colonies. Similar to the human flu virus, distemper strains vary from year to year. Some years it is more contagious than others, and has varying survival rates. It is also more likely to spread during the warmer months of the year. The virus does not pass between cats and dogs and cannot infect humans.
Diagnosis of Distemper in Cats
Distemper signs resemble the signs of several other diseases and may be mistaken for poisoning or ingestion of a foreign object. In order to help prevent misdiagnosis, a veterinarian will need a thorough medical history and details regarding any recent activities that may have caused exposure to the disease.
A physical examination will provide the vet with information about the nature and severity of the cat's symptoms. In addition, the vet will likely order the following laboratory tests: a complete blood count to detect blood cell abnormalities; a biochemical profile to find signs of dehydration or organ failure and to rule out poisoning; fecal tests to look for the virus in stool. False fecal results are possible if the kitty has been vaccinated within the past five to 12 days.
Observation of the feline's ability to ambulate and coordinate their movements is part of the examination, and signs of depression such as hiding away may be seen during the physical exam as well.
Treatment of Distemper in Cats
There is no medication available that will cure distemper. Veterinary care focuses instead on alleviating symptoms, providing supportive care, and preventing secondary infections.
Symptom management
Symptoms that make the cat uncomfortable or unable to walk, eat, drink, or eliminate waste, are among the first treatment targets. Cat parents should arrange an immediate consultation with a veterinarian if they observe any symptoms – early detection and treatment will improve the kitty's odds of recovery.
At the clinic, the vet will prescribe intravenous fluids to combat dehydration and provide nourishment if the cat's appetite is affected, as well as to improve their overall condition and restore strength. They will likely keep the cat in the clinic for a day or two to observe and treat any new symptoms. When the feline no longer needs IVs and intense nursing care, they will be allowed to go home, with some specific instructions for the cat's parents.
Antibiotics will be given at the clinic if the vet suspects the cat is susceptible to secondary infections, or has already developed one.
Supportive care
Care that aims to support the cat while its body is fighting the illness begins in the clinic and continues at home after discharge. Typically, the purr baby can go home once they don't need IVs any longer and will eat by mouth.
Other supportive care prescribed by the veterinarian may include hand-feeding, medications to fight vomiting and diarrhea, and provision of a warm, comfortable environment, with the litter box, food, and water bowls nearby for easy access. The cat will likely remain under quarantine for a period of time if there are other cats in the home. Attention and shows of affection by pet parents will help alleviate the purr baby's depression.
Secondary infection prevention
Cats with feline panleukopenia are vulnerable to bacterial and other infections until the virus is eradicated. Respiratory conditions are anticipated and treated initially in the clinic via IV with antibiotics, which may be continued at home as oral medication. It's important to report any signs of infection such as oozing skin lesions, increased eye or nose discharge, wheezing, or shallow panting.
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Recovery of Distemper in Cats
Kittens that are born with distemper or contract it prior to eight weeks of age generally have a poor prognosis. In adult cats, signs may be mild and may go unnoticed. When the immune system is strong and proper treatment is provided, there is a very good chance for full recovery. If a cat survives the first five days, prognosis is very good. Once a cat has recovered, it becomes immune and cannot contract or spread the disease again.
Recovering cats must be provided a quiet, warm place to rest. The food, water, and litter box should be kept close by so that the cat doesn’t need to exert itself to meet its basic needs. Children and other animals should be kept away from the cat to avoid over-stimulation. Depression (or apathy) is one of the primary signs of distemper, so owners should be sure to provide recovering cats with plenty of affection and physical contact. With proper care, cats typically recover and return to normal within two weeks.
Owners should be careful to thoroughly wash hands and remember that the disease is easily spread and remains on surfaces for long periods of time. Surfaces should be scrubbed down with bleach, and all of the cat’s belongings including food dishes, bedding, toys, and litter box should be thrown away and replaced. If there are other cats in the home, they should be carefully observed for symptoms and owners should consult with their vet regarding vaccination, if not already done.
Distemper can be expensive to treat. If you suspect your cat has distemper or is at risk, start searching for pet insurance today to find the “pawfect” plan for your pet in just a few clicks!
Cost of Distemper in Cats
The cost of treating feline distemper averages $1,000 to $1,100.
Distemper Average Cost
From 407 quotes ranging from $500 - $2,000
Average Cost
$1,100
Top
Distemper Questions and Advice from Veterinary Professionals
cat
One Year
8 found this helpful
8 found this helpful
My pet has the following symptoms:
Noisy Breathing
Our long hair cat Tom was fine until about an hour ago now he won't walk or eat or meow. He looks like he's staring into space and his breathing seems normal but a small fast pace. He won't stand but is gently moving his tail.
Feb. 23, 2021
Answered by Dr. Sara O. DVM
8 Recommendations
Hello, if your cat is not responding normally, it would be best for him to see a vet tonight. There are many things that could be causing this and he would need to be examined by a vet right away to see why he is suddenly not able to move.
Feb. 23, 2021
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dsh
Martin
1 Year
7 found this helpful
7 found this helpful
My pet has the following symptoms:
Diarrhea
My sister adopted a year old cat from a cat shelter a week ago today. He seems to eat (canned food) ok, but isn't really drinking very much. He has diarrhea for a week now. We originally thought it was just the stress of a new environment, but it isn't letting up. He looks as if he has lost weight also.
Aug. 25, 2018
7 Recommendations
Without examining Martin I cannot say what the specific cause of the symptoms are, you should visit a Veterinarian for an examination to be on the safe side if there is no improvement; diarrhoea and weight loss may be attributable to many different conditions which may include infections, parasites, foreign objects, poisoning, stress, dietary changes among other conditions. Regards Dr Callum Turner DVM
Aug. 26, 2018
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Persian
Dash and Pikachu
9 Weeks
54 found this helpful
54 found this helpful
My pet has the following symptoms:
Diarrhea
I adopted 2 Persian kittens 8 weeks old. They are brothers after 2 days we visited a vet as both are having diarrhea. They were not vaccinated yet. And both are positive with parvo. They are both given supplements and vitamins for support. After 2 days from vet visit Pikachu died. He is not eating and drinking as the other one is always playing and no sign of distemper except same wet stool. Dash is still alive eating and drinking and playing but my worries is that he still got a diarrhea. I'm afraid he might also die... What should I do?
😭😭😭
Aug. 25, 2018
54 Recommendations
There is no specific treatment for feline distemper apart from supportive and symptomatic care which includes maintaining hydration, antibiotics (in case of secondary infection), vitamin B injections etc… I cannot give a prognosis for Dash, but continue with any treatment given from your Veterinarian and follow up with them if Dash doesn’t improve. Regards Dr Callum Turner DVM
Aug. 26, 2018
As of now he is a little lethargic but once he ate and drinks he becomes playful. But still, I am concern about diarrhea. I put the vitamins in his soup with rice and fish. He likes it. Praise God for his appetite even though his having diarrhea... 😌
Aug. 26, 2018
Dash and Pikachu's Owner
Exactly 3 weeks now after Dash was diagnosed with Distemper!
Praise God he is well now no more diarrhoea and eating and playing like a normal kitty... he is now on his way to gaining weight. He did not took any antibiotic just a lot of vitamin B supplement and electrolyte drink lots of TLC and petting... I stopped electrolyte drink after a week and now he drinks a lot of water the poop is normal as well and eating dry and wet food!!! Praise God for the healing ^_^
Sept. 5, 2018
Christine D.
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Persian
Dash
9 Weeks
10 found this helpful
10 found this helpful
My pet has the following symptoms:
Wet Stool Dark Greyish Green Color
I adopted 2 kittens both 8 weeks old from a friend. They don't have vaccines yet and both have distemper as per the vet who checked them. They gave me vitamins and supplement for the kitties as they can't get the vaccine now because of fever. After 5 days girl kitty died... But the male kitty is not showing any symptoms of distemper except loose bowel. He is playfully eating and drinking water. Pls. Answer me is he going to die also? 😭😭😭
Aug. 25, 2018
10 Recommendations
There is no specific treatment for feline distemper apart from supportive and symptomatic care which includes maintaining hydration, antibiotics (in case of secondary infection), vitamin B injections etc… I cannot give a prognosis for Dash, but continue with any treatment given from your Veterinarian and follow up with them if Dash doesn’t improve. Regards Dr Callum Turner DVM
Aug. 26, 2018
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Maine Coon
Mouse
10 Weeks
1 found this helpful
1 found this helpful
My pet has the following symptoms:
Vomiting
Not Eating Or Drinking
A few days ago we ran out of kitten food so I gave the kittens some adult cat food instead. Yesterday I saw Mouse throw up some yellow fluid. At first I didn't think it was serious, that she might be having a bad reaction to the food. Now, this morning she wouldn't get up to eat. She wouldn't even eat the canned food my sister gave her. She did walk around a bit unsteady at first but then at a regular pace even jumped onto the table in the greenhouse. She is more or less separated from the other kittens. They are outdoor kittens. I considered taking her to the vet but they are closed now until Monday, plus neither me or my sister can afford the vet right now. I do not know for sure if she has distemper or not. We had a stray cat show up a week ago skin and bones but then died Monday morning near where the kittens usually eat. Mostly I thought it was worms but now with Mouse sick I am thinking otherwise. What should I do?
Aug. 25, 2018
1 Recommendations
Some vomiting and loss of appetite may be attributable to a sudden dietary change which may affect some cats more than others; without examining Mouse I cannot say whether there is an infection or another cause. If you have concerns you should keep Mouse separate from the others and visit your Veterinarian to be on the safe side. Regards Dr Callum Turner DVM
Aug. 26, 2018
I adopted 2 Persian kittens 8 weeks old. They are brothers after 2 days we visited a vet as both are having diarrhea. They were not vaccinated yet. And both are positive with parvo. They are both given supplements and vitamins for support. After 2 days from vet visit Pikachu died. He is not eating and drinking as the other one is always playing and no sign of distemper except same wet stool. Dash is still alive eating and drinking and playing but my worries is that he still got a diarrhea. I'm afraid he might also die... What should I do?
Aug. 25, 2018
Tin C.
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Persian
Wanwana adn Minchin
8 Months
0 found this helpful
0 found this helpful
My pet has the following symptoms:
Diarrhea
Fever
Vomiting
Decreased Appetite
I have two cats now who has Feline panleukopenia. It is day 8 of treatment and I cannot see a large visible improvement yet but every improvement is good for me no matter how small it is. Sometimes what they need is to see us fighting for them. I visited the vet and I will have a ffup nextwk. Me and ny boyfriend have been force feeding them to make sure that they get all the nutrients possible while recovering. Liquid recovery diet is a big help. My catd stopped grooming themselves athe minute they realized that they have a virus. They are very depressed and sometimes I make sure to hold them each and talk to them. Aroma diffuser is also encouraged for them to properly sleep. They have stopped sleeping eversince the treatment and now they have been sleeping all day to regain their strength. I saw them vommit and defecate blood and what i can advise, as early as you detected one of it, give them meds to avoid decreased platelets and rbc. My cats wbc was 2 but it went up to normal now because of vitamins and antibiotics.
Distemper Average Cost
From 407 quotes ranging from $500 - $2,000
Average Cost
$1,100
Get a free pet insurance quote in less than 60 seconds!
Easily compare quotes from the most trusted pet insurance companies in the United States.
