Symptoms of Parvovirus in Cats

Parvo is a serious illness that can be especially deadly for young kittens. Here, our Rochester vets discuss the effects of parvovirus in cats, as well as the symptoms, why it is dangerous and what the treatment options are.

Parvovirus in Cats - What is it?

Parvovirus in cats is a highly contagious virus that attacks the cells of their intestines. This can lead to diarrhea, vomiting, and difficulty eating and drinking. It also attacks the bone marrow, resulting in a shortage of red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets.

This condition is most severe among kittens aged three to five months. Kittens are protected at birth by antibodies found in their mother's milk, but this protection fades when they reach four to twelve weeks old. 

Because parvovirus is so common, all cats are expected to contract it at least once. Aside from young kittens, sick or unvaccinated cats are more likely to contract the disease.

How do cats get parvo?

Parvo is widespread in most environments, and nearly every cat will be exposed to it during its lifetime. Young kittens, sick or unvaccinated cats, and even dogs are most likely to contract this disease.

Cats can contract parvovirus through direct contact with an infected cat, contaminated objects, or exposure to infected bodily fluids. The virus spreads through oral and nasal routes and other secretions, including urine and feces, close contact, shared litter boxes, food bowls, grooming tools, and potential transmission sources.

Why is parvovirus dangerous for young cats and kittens?

Parvo is a disease of the stomach and small intestines. The virus begins destroying the cat's gut barrier by attacking healthy cells and blocking the absorption of essential nutrients.

Parvo also attacks the bone marrow and lymphopoietic tissues in kittens, which play essential roles in your cat's immune system. The virus will often affect the heart.

Young Cats Are Susceptible to Parvo

If the mother is fully vaccinated against parvo, her kittens will inherit antibodies for the first few weeks to protect them against the virus. 

However, as the kittens begin to wean, their immune systems weaken, and the young kittens become susceptible to the disease.

Vets urge pet parents to begin vaccinating their kittens against parvo at six weeks of age when the kitten begins to wean, and the antibodies from the mother are no longer available to protect them.

It isn't until the young cat has received all three vaccinations that they will be protected against the disease. During the gap between weaning and full vaccination, kittens will likely catch parvo.

The Symptoms of Parvovirus in Cats

When a cat has parvovirus, the symptoms will appear once the illness is already quite advanced. Here are the common signs that your cat may show once infected:

This disease can progress very quickly, and in fragile kittens, it may lead to death if not caught right away. Contact your nearest emergency vet if you see the slightest sign of these symptoms.

What are the treatment options for cats with parvovirus?

While parvo has no cure in kittens, your veterinarian will recommend supportive treatments to alleviate symptoms such as vomiting and diarrhea. It is critical to ensure that your kitten receives adequate hydration and nutrition to aid in their recovery from parvovirus. Unfortunately, kittens have a significantly higher mortality rate after contracting this disease.

Secondary infections are common in parvo kittens (due to their weakened immune systems), so your vet will keep an eye on your kitten's condition and may prescribe antibiotics to help combat any bacterial infections that may develop.

If your four-legged friend receives veterinary care and survives the first four days after symptoms appear, your kitten will likely recover from the disease.

The Importance of Vaccinations to Protect Against Parvo

Never allow your kitten to spend time around cats that have not been fully vaccinated against parvovirus. Initial vaccines and annual booster shots help to protect your feline friend.

Without these vaccines, your cat is at risk of contracting parvovirus and other potentially deadly diseases. Follow your vet's advice and have your kitten vaccinated against parvo, rabies and other potentially serious conditions based on a kitten vaccination schedule for your area.

What is the prognosis for cats with parvovirus?

Feline parvovirus used to be the leading cause of death in cats. Thanks to preventive vaccinations, this is no longer the case. However, if your cat contracts parvovirus, their chances of survival are slim.

Adult cats with parvo have a higher chance of survival than kittens. Cats receiving veterinary care for parvovirus have a higher chance of survival than those not. Up to 90% of cats that contract parvovirus and are not treated will die.

We strongly advise all pet owners to vaccinate their kittens and cats and follow up with booster shots for the rest of their cat's life. Preventive measures always outweigh the cost and anxiety associated with treating your cat after it is already terminally ill.

Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.