Description
Feline distemper, also called feline parvo or feline panleukopenia, is a highly contagious viral disease that affects wild and domestic felids (cats) but can also infect mink and raccoons. The virus, Carnivore protoparvovirus 1, attacks the gastrointestinal, immune, and nervous systems and leads to a decrease in white blood cells in an infected animal. While it shares a similar name, feline distemper is not the same as canine distemper because a different virus causes it.
Transmission
Feline distemper is mainly spread through direct contact with infected secretions such as feces, urine, vomit, saliva and mucus, or inhalation of contaminated air. Animals may also contract the disease from fleas, biting flies, and other insects. Infected animals shed the virus into the environment in large amounts and can continue to do so weeks or months after they have recovered from infection. Additionally, the virus resists disinfection and can remain in the environment for long periods of time, potentially spreading to more animals.
Clinical Signs
Signs of feline distemper are rapid and show within a few days of contracting the disease. Animals infected with the feline distemper virus show generalized depression, loss of appetite, high fever, lethargy (tiredness or unwillingness to move), vomiting, severe diarrhea, nasal discharge, and dehydration. Young animals are more likely to be affected by the virus because they have not developed a robust immune system. Death usually occurs in a matter of days after infection. If you believe your cat shows signs of feline distemper, contact your veterinarian immediately.
Wildlife Management Implications
In wild populations, little is known about the significance of feline distemper, especially in wild cats. It is rarely seen or reported; therefore, the impacts are unknown. You may report sick wildlife using our online sick or dead wildlife reporting tool.
Human Health Significance
There have been no reported incidents related to human health. For more information on feline distemper's health impacts on humans, please visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention or contact a local health care provider. Feline distemper can affect domestic cats, so contact your veterinarian with any concerns regarding pets.
Additional Resources
Michigan Department of Natural Resources Canine and Feline Distemper