Feline Infectious Enteritis, also known as feline panleukopenia or feline parvovirus, is a highly contagious viral infection that primarily affects domestic cats, as well as other feline species. It is caused by the feline parvovirus, a small, single-stranded DNA virus.
This disease primarily affects the gastrointestinal tract of infected cats, leading to severe symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea (often bloody), anorexia, and dehydration. Additionally, the feline parvovirus targets rapidly dividing cells, which can result in a significant decrease in white blood cells, causing immunosuppression and increasing the susceptibility to secondary bacterial infections.
Transmission of the virus occurs primarily through direct contact with an infected cat's bodily fluids, such as saliva, feces, urine, or nasal secretions. It can also be transmitted indirectly through contaminated objects, such as food bowls, litter boxes, or grooming tools.
Feline Infectious Enteritis poses a serious health risk to unvaccinated cats, particularly kittens, as they are more vulnerable to the disease. Mortality rates can be high, especially in young felines, due to the severity of the disease's symptoms and the potential complications that can arise.
Prevention of Feline Infectious Enteritis is primarily achieved through vaccination. Routine vaccination of kittens and booster vaccinations in adult cats help to create protective immunity against the virus. Proper hygiene practices, such as regular cleaning and disinfection of litter boxes and feeding utensils, can also aid in preventing the spread of the virus.
Prompt diagnosis and supportive management, including fluid therapy and medication to alleviate symptoms, are crucial in improving the prognosis of infected cats.
