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What is Feline Parvovirus

Feline panleukopenia (FPV), also called feline parvovirus, is a highly contagious, potentially fatal disease of cats caused by the feline panleukopenia virus. Kittens are most severely affected. Adult cats are much less often affected.

FPV is spread from cat to cat and infected cats can pass FPV in their stool and body fluids like urine and nose discharges. Vulnerable cats may become infected when they contact these substances, the infected cats themselves, or even fleas from infected cats. Infected, pregnant cats can also pass the virus to their unborn kittens.

Other possible sources of infection are virus-contaminated items like bedding; litter boxes; cages; food and water bowls; toys; hands or clothing of people who have handled infected cats; vaccinations are the way to limit the disease.

See our full guide to cat vaccination

Written by Dr. Mariella Roberts, Veterinary Surgeon, Animal Trust Vets CIC | Published January 2025 | This advice is for UK pets only

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Symptoms of Feline Parvovirus

Most cats with FPV infection have no signs at all and appear normal. Cats that do become ill, most often those younger than a year old may have the following: diarrhea; vomiting; fever; lethargy; not eating; dehydration (may appear as sunken eyes or dry gums); painful belly. Affected cats, especially kittens, also may suddenly die. 

When to contact your vet

If your cat shows any of the above symptoms of FPV especially if they are young and unvaccinated.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis is based on symptoms the cat is showing; whether the cat's vaccines are current; and whether the cat has been exposed to other cats (especially cats that might not have been vaccinated). Bloodwork typically will be advised to measure the cat's immune system blood cells and identify any abnormalities to help with a diagnosis. Other tests may be recommended to confirm that the virus is present.

Treatment of Feline Parvovirus

There's no specific treatment for feline FPV, so care usually focuses on supporting affected cats with fluids, nutrients, and other essential needs until they improve. This typically involves isolation from other cats, whether within the veterinary hospital or at home. Severely ill cats are at risk of life-threatening dehydration, and shock and need intensive care and monitoring as soon as possible. This type of care often includes fluid drip, nutritional support, pain and/or anti-sickness medications, and antibiotics for cats with bacterial infections. Cats with anaemia may need a transfusion.

Prevention of Feline Parvovirus

Prevention is vital to your cat's health. It all starts with vaccination. Vaccination against this virus is highly effective and has a critical role in protecting cats against infection, especially as the virus is highly contagious. The virus can also survive for long periods in the environment, so vaccination is the only real way to protect cats.

Outlook

Whether a cat recovers from FPV depends on a variety of factors, such as their age (adult cats have a better chance of surviving than kittens) and general health status, the severity of their illness, and how quickly they receive veterinary attention. Generally, the earlier a cat receives care, the better the chance of a good outcome.

Animal Trust is a trading name of Animal Trust Vets CIC, a community interest company registered in England and Wales. Company Registration No: 07938025

Registered Office: Animal Trust Administration Centre, Cedab Road, Ellesmere Port, CH65 4FE