Feline Panleukopenia (Cat Parvo)

What is feline panleukopenia?

Feline panleukopenia is a severe and very contagious disease caused by feline parvovirus. It is also called feline distemper or cat parvo. Kittens and unvaccinated cats are most at risk.

The virus attacks cells that divide quickly, such as the lining of the gut and the bone marrow, where blood cells are made. The word panleukopenia means a drop in all types of white blood cells. With few white cells, the body struggles to fight germs from the damaged gut. Kittens infected before birth or when very young may have balance problems later.

The virus passes out in faeces and can survive for a long time on floors, bedding, bowls, hands and clothes, so a cat can catch it without meeting a sick cat. It does not infect people.

Signs to watch for

Common signs include:

• Sudden low energy and hiding
• Not eating
• Vomiting
• Diarrhoea, sometimes with blood
• Fever
• Dehydration, with dry gums and sunken eyes

Very young kittens can become critically ill or die suddenly.

Which lab tests help

The Feline Parvo Virus Ag (Rapid Test) looks for virus antigen (a part of the virus) in a faecal sample. A positive result in a sick kitten supports the diagnosis. A negative result does not always rule the disease out, because the amount of virus in faeces can vary.

The Feline Panleukopenia (FPV) RT-PCR looks for the virus's genetic material in faeces or blood and can find smaller amounts. A live vaccine given recently can sometimes cause a weak positive in either test, so tell your vet when your cat was last vaccinated.

A Complete Blood Count (CBC) often shows a very low white cell count. This supports the diagnosis and helps your vet judge how sick the cat is. Electrolytes, Serum (Na, K & Cl) can show changes in body salts caused by vomiting and diarrhoea. If the cause of diarrhoea is unclear, the Feline Diarrhoea RT-PCR Panel typically checks for several causes at once; the exact list is confirmed when you book.

A registered veterinarian interprets every result together with your cat's signs and vaccination history.

When to see your vet

See your vet at once if a kitten or unvaccinated cat is vomiting, has diarrhoea or stops eating. Kittens can get worse within hours. Call the clinic before you arrive, so staff can keep other cats away from yours. Ask your vet about vaccination.

Testing in Bhopal

Pashupatinath Vet Lab in Shahpura, Bhopal provides free sample collection anywhere in Bhopal. A fresh faecal sample in a clean, closed container is usually needed. From other districts, samples can be sent through your local vet, by courier or by bus parcel; the lab coordinates by phone or WhatsApp on +91 88175 01118. The lab confirms sample needs and reporting time when you book. Reports come on WhatsApp, by email and in My Reports.