PANLEUKOPENIA OUTBREAKS IMPACTING FERAL COLONIES
The Loving Spay+Neuter Clinic has become aware of several suspected or confirmed panleukopenia virus outbreaks in our area's colonies. Please read for more information.
What is Panleukopenia?
Panleukopenia is a disease in cats caused by a parvovirus that can lead to severe diarrhea and vomiting, depletion of the body’s white blood cells, and rapid decline and death. It is very contagious and can survive on surfaces and the environment for a very long time (it is hard to kill). There is a vaccine - it is included in the feline “distemper” combo vaccine (referred to as FVRCP). The virus can be shed before symptoms start and can take up to 2 weeks after exposure to start showing signs.
What is the LSNC doing to prevent spread?
As always, all pets are kept in separate cages that are cleaned and disinfected with a parvocidal agent between each patient. All surgery equipment is sterilized between each pet. Laundry is washed and disinfected between each pet.
Feral/Community cat surgeries are done at the end of the day after all the other cats are in recovery to prevent cross-contamination.
Feral/Community cats have a separate recovery area from the pet cats.
We keep feral/community cat colonies together throughout the day and try to provide some distance between colonies.
Feral/Community cats are kept on disposable pads that can be thrown away after use.
If a feral/community cat exhibits signs of this disease while at the LSNC, we will call the caretaker to advise on medical care and “isolate” that cat.
What can feral/community cat caretakers, trappers, and transporters do to prevent the spread?
Do not bring in any cats for surgery with obvious signs of disease.
Clean and disinfect traps and your cars in between cats. Be sure to use an agent that kills parvovirus. UV light also helps deactivate the virus.
Consider getting the feline “distemper” vaccine. Even one vaccine can confer some immunity.
Continue TNR practices to help control overpopulation of the colonies and the introduction of immunocompromised neonatal kittens to an infected colony.
What can cat owners do to prevent contracting panleukopenia?
Be sure your cat is always up to date on all vaccines, including the feline “distemper” vaccine. We always recommend all pets be fully vaccinated at least 2 weeks before coming in for surgery.
We do offer the feline “distemper” vaccine and recommend all cats get this vaccine, whether they are indoor or outdoor.
Do not bring in any cats for surgery with obvious signs of disease.
Clean and disinfect your carrier and bedding after returning home from surgery.
Contact your full-service veterinarian for more information.
