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Pet health warning follows canine parvovirus, feline distemper outbreak
November 13, 2024
PRESS RELEASE
โ ๐๐๐๐ ๐๐๐ค๐ช๐ฉ ๐ฉ๐๐ ๐๐ฃ๐๐ง๐๐๐๐๐ก๐ ๐ข๐๐ก๐๐จ๐ฉ๐ค๐ฃ๐ ๐๐๐ฉ๐จ ๐๐ ๐๐๐ ๐๐ค๐ข๐๐ก๐๐จ๐จ ๐ง๐๐๐๐ฃ๐ฉ๐ก๐ฎ ๐๐๐ก๐๐๐ง๐๐ฉ๐๐!ยAnimal Welfare League Queensland (AWLQ) has issued an urgent plea to pet owners across South East Queensland and Northern New South Wales following a concerning rise in cases of canine parvovirus and feline panleukopenia. Both diseases are highly infectious diseases and pose a serious risk to pets.
Those most at risk are unvaccinated pets, prompting AWLQ to stress the importance of vaccination and preventive measures.
Alarming rise in highly contagious and deadly pet viruses
Canine parvovirus (parvo) and feline panleukopenia (panleuk) are severe viral diseases that spread quickly among dogs and cats, respectively.
While treatable, both diseases are costly and complex to manage once contracted.
โBoth parvo and panleuk are extremely costly to treat, and prevention is always the best approach,โ says Melinda Phipps, AWLQโs State Rehoming Manager.
โWe strongly encourage pet owners to ensure their animals are up-to-date on their vaccinations.โ
The AWLQโs alert is focused on Brisbane, Logan, the Gold Coast, Ipswich, and Northern NSW, areas experiencing heightened infection rates.
In response, the AWLQ Gold Coast Rehoming Centre has temporarily paused cat and kitten surrenders, citing the potential risk of infection and aiming to reduce virus transmission among unvaccinated animals.
How to protect pets from viruses
AWLQ recommends indoor living for cats and kittens, especially those not yet vaccinated, to minimise exposure to the feline panleukopenia virus.
Additionally, theyโve implemented revised intake policies across their centres, mandating vaccinations for all incoming cats and kittens.
To further contain the spread, the AWLQ advises owners to prioritise annual vaccinations, which remain the most effective measure against both viruses.
Another important reminder for owners is to know the parvovirus symptoms in dogs and the symptoms of feline distemper. Keep reading as we share a list of common symptoms below.
โThis outbreak is the most significant weโve seen in recent years,โ adds Phipps.
โWe believe it stems from the recent supply chain issues with cat vaccinations, compounded by the rising cost of living pressures.โ
The AWLQ says it has recognised this financial challenges impacting pet owners and is working to provide accessible vaccination resources to the community.
Outdoor and unvaccinated kittens are most at risk of contracting feline distemper (image: Canva)
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What is canine parvovirus?
Canine parvovirus is a highly contagious virus that affects dogs, especially puppies and those with compromised immune systems. The virus attacks rapidly dividing cells, particularly in the intestines, causing severe gastrointestinal symptoms. Key signs include vomiting, diarrhoea (often with blood), loss of appetite, and lethargy. Parvo spreads through direct contact with an infected dog or through exposure to contaminated faeces, environments, or objects. There is no cure, but treatment involves supportive care to help the immune system fight off the infection. Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent parvo, with puppies typically receiving a series of shots starting at six to eight weeks of age.
Symptoms of canine parvovirus (Parvo):
- Severe vomiting
- Diarrhoea, often with blood
- Loss of appetite
- Lethargy or extreme tiredness
- Abdominal pain or discomfort
- Rapid weight loss
- Dehydration
- Fever
What is feline distemper (panleukopenia)?
Feline panleukopenia, also known as feline distemper, is caused by the feline parvovirus. It predominantly affects young kittens and unvaccinated cats, leading to symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhoea, dehydration, lethargy, and abdominal pain. Infected cats can appear asymptomatic, but when symptoms occur, they can escalate quickly, especially in kittens less than a year old. The virus spreads through direct contact with bodily fluids, contaminated objects, or environments. Vaccination is crucial, as it provides strong immunity and is the best defence against this virus.
Symptoms of feline distemper:
- Vomiting
- Diarrhoea, sometimes with blood
- Dehydration
- Lethargy or weakness
- Loss of appetite
- High fever
- Abdominal pain
- Sudden death in severe cases, particularly in kittens
โจ For the latest updates on vaccination resources and outbreak management, AWLQ encourages the public to visit their website and social media channels.
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