What is Feline Panleukopenia?
This virus is also known as feline distemper. It causes severe vomiting and diarrhea, fever, lethargy, inappetence and dehydration. Kittens that are infected in utero (while in the mom cat) develope cerebellar hypoplasia which means a certain area of their brain that controls coordination doesn't develope well. Subsequently, the kitten or cat has ataxia (walks like he is drunk) and motor control problems (has a hard time eating etc.) These symptoms generally improve a little with age but will never resolve. Treatment for feline panleukopenia is aimed at supportive care. This disease can be fatal. The vaccine is highly protective.
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