Can Kittens Get Parvo Virus

Cats can get parvo directly from contact with another cat who has it.

Can kittens get parvo virus. The same cannot be said for the reverse situation as studies have shown that a mutated strain of the canine parvovirus can infect cats. But parvo can also be transmitted by fleas that have fed off of an infected cat which is why it s very difficult to prevent your kitten from being exposed to this deadly disease. Parvo is species specific so cats can get parvo but not the same strand dogs get. Both cat s and kittens can get parvovirus.

Parvovirus is highly contagious and a mutated strain of canine parvovirus has been suspected of infecting felines. Cats get feline distemper via the parvovirus. This virus is found in the air in the environment. Parvo in cats is different than the parvo virus that dogs get.

It is also known as feline infectious enteritis cat fever or feline ataxia. They can also get it from contact with an infected cat s urine feces and nose secretions. People who handle an infected cat or an infected cat s bedding food or water dish can carry the virus to the next cat they handle. While not the same as canine parvovirus it is referred to as parvo due to the similar symptoms.

Parvo in cats can spread to other cats but can t infect other species. Yes parvo in cats is transmissible to other unvaccinated cats. Symptoms range from fever severe dehydration diarrhea and vomiting. While dogs cannot catch feline parvovirus the virus can mutate and be spread to cats.

The parvo virus is tough. We recommend always asking your local vet for clarification if you are unsure. Most cats catch the virus through infected areas rather than from other infected cats as the virus can survive up to a year in the environment. This is a highly contagious disease and it s also very dangerous.

Cats are most susceptible as kittens from 4 to 12 weeks of age or even as unvaccinated adults. Kittens are more susceptible to parvo especially if exposed to an infected animal such as their mother. It is highly contagious and cats should be vaccinated as kittens and have booster shots every year. The cat strain called feline panleukopenia virus fpv is a significant disease threat amongst the feline community but it cannot be transferred to canines.

However generally kittens are easily more susceptible to the viral infection as they do not have have the development of active immunity and they do not have a strong enough immune system to battle all the clinical signs that occur. Feline parvovirus is the virus that causes feline panleukopenia.