"Feline Panleukopenias" is a veterinary term that refers to a highly contagious viral disease in cats. The unusual spelling of this word can be explained using the IPA phonetic transcription: /ˈfiːlaɪn ˌpænluːkəʊpɛniəz/. The word "feline" comes from the Latin word "felis," which means "cat," while "panleukopenias" is derived from the Greek roots "pan" (meaning "all"), "leukos" (meaning "white"), and "penia" (meaning "deficiency"). The plural "s" at the end indicates that the term refers to multiple cases of the disease.
Feline panleukopenia, also known as feline parvovirus infection or feline distemper, is a highly contagious viral disease affecting cats. It is caused by the feline parvovirus, which primarily attacks rapidly dividing cells in the bone marrow, lymph nodes, intestines, and various other organs. This results in a severe decrease in white blood cells, leading to a condition called panleukopenia.
The virus is transmitted through direct contact with infected cats or their bodily fluids, as well as indirect contact with contaminated objects or environments. Kittens can also contract the infection from an infected mother during gestation or through the colostrum (first milk) in the first few days of life. Feline panleukopenia is particularly prevalent in unvaccinated or incompletely vaccinated cats.
Symptoms of feline panleukopenia include loss of appetite, lethargy, fever, vomiting, diarrhea (often bloody), dehydration, and a weakened immune response, leaving the cat susceptible to secondary bacterial infections. In severe cases, it can be fatal, especially in young kittens or cats with compromised immune systems.
Prevention of feline panleukopenia primarily involves proper vaccination protocols, adhering to a strict hygiene routine, and minimizing exposure to infected cats or contaminated environments. Vaccination starts at an early age and is given in multiple doses to establish immunity.
Prompt veterinary care is crucial in managing feline panleukopenia. Treatment may include supportive care to address dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, and secondary infections. Isolation and appropriate disinfection of infected areas are essential to prevent the spread of the virus.
The word "feline" comes from the Latin word "felis", which means "cat". "Panleukopenia" is a medical term derived from Greek roots. "Pan" means "all" or "total", "leukos" means "white", and "penia" means "deficiency". Therefore, "panleukopenia" can be understood as a deficiency of white blood cells throughout the body. Combined, "feline panleukopenia" refers to a viral disease that affects cats, causing a significant decrease in white blood cell count.