Feline Panleukopenia (FP)

Feline panleukopenia (FP), commonly referred to as feline distemper or feline infectious enteritis, is a prevalent and contagious disease in cats, caused by the feline panleukopenia virus (FPV). Despite the extensive utilization of vaccines, FP continues to be a significant infectious ailment among felines. BioVenic, as a dedicated animal disease diagnosis company, is committed to assisting customers in more effectively diagnosis, preventing, and treating FP.

Etiology

FPV belongs to the family Parvoviridae and the genus Protoparvovirus and is a single-stranded positive-strand linear DNA virus. The virus is non-encapsulated, spherical, about 20-25 nm in diameter, and has an icosahedral capsid, with only one serotype. FPV has strong resistance to the environment and can maintain infectivity in the external environment for several months.

Distribution

FP has a global distribution, affecting cats in various regions across the world. Its prevalence is not limited to any specific geographic location, emphasizing the need for global awareness and preventive measures.

Susceptible Animals

FPV can infect all felines such as cats, tigers, and leopards, as well as minks, raccoons, and foxes. Cats are susceptible regardless of gender, age, and breed, but the morbidity and mortality rates are different, and the incidence rate decreases with age. It mostly occurs in kittens under 1 year old, and kittens aged 3-5 months who are incompletely vaccinated or not vaccinated are the most susceptible, with an infection rate of up to 70% and a case fatality rate of 50%-60%.

Transmission

Sick and recovered cats are the main source of infection, and the digestive tract is the main route of transmission. Infection through direct or indirect contact with poisonous vomit, secretions, and excreta; can also be transmitted vertically through the placenta; and fleas, lice, and mites can also become the vectors of the disease.

Public Health Risk

Although FP does not pose a significant direct risk to humans, the FPV is closely related to parvoviruses that affect other species, such as dogs. Therefore, practicing good hygiene and taking precautions when handling infected cats or materials is important to prevent potential cross-species transmission.

Pathogenesis

FPV can only proliferate in the S phase of cells (DNA synthesis phase) and mainly invades tissues that differentiate or divide rapidly in animals, such as the placenta of pregnant female animals, fetuses, intestinal epithelial cells of young animals, bone marrow, etc. As a consequence, there is a significant decrease in the number of white blood cells, which weakens the immune system and raises the likelihood of contracting further infections.

Signs and Symptoms

Cats of different ages infected with FPV have a different course and symptoms and may exhibit the following symptoms:

Diagnosis

Common laboratory diagnostic methods include serum amyloid A detection, immunodiagnostics, molecular diagnostics, etc.

• Serum Amyloid A (SAA) Detection: The level of SAA was significantly increased.
• Immunodiagnostics: FPV can coagulate red blood cells of monkeys and pigs at 4℃, and can be used for virus neutralization assay and serum plate agglutination assay. Colloidal particle-based immunoassay (CPIA) also be used to detect FPV.
• Molecular Diagnostics: FPV detection by PCR amplification of specific fragments.

Treatment

FP lacks a specific therapy. Our recommendation involves adhering to treatment principles that focus on regulating the body's immune function, inhibiting the proliferation of FPV, replenishing fluids, correcting the body's acid-base and electrolyte balance, controlling bacteria secondary infections, and providing symptomatic treatment.

The prognosis is contingent on factors such as the severity of the disease, the age of the affected cat, and the prompt initiation of treatment.

Prevention and Control

• Vaccination is highly effective in providing long-lasting immunity against FPV. Regular vaccination schedules, starting from an early age, are recommended to ensure optimal protection. BioVenic has developed tailored FPV vaccines for customers, providing reliable protection and supporting overall feline health.
• In addition to vaccination, implementing strict hygiene practices is vital. Disinfecting contaminated areas, isolating FPV-infected cats, and practicing proper hand hygiene when handling cats or materials potentially exposed to the virus significantly reduce transmission risks.
• Not only can parasites transmit FPV, but they can also cause issues such as poor nutritional supply and anemia in cats. These issues can result in an insufficient or failed vaccine immune response. Regularly practicing good deworming prevention in cats is crucial to prevent FP. (Cat ectoparasites mainly include fleas, hard ticks, scabies, etc., common internal parasites include roundworms, tapeworms, etc.)

BioVenic is dedicated to advancing the understanding of FP and developing innovative diagnostics solutions to combat it. Additionally, our team of experts continually develops effective vaccines and preventive measures. We strive to improve feline health and reduce the impact of FP worldwide. If you need our support, please feel free to contact us.

Reference

1. Awad, Romane A., et al. "Epidemiology and diagnosis of feline panleukopenia virus in Egypt: Clinical and molecular diagnosis in cats." Veterinary world vol. 11,5 (2018): 578-584.