Feline Diseases... What are they?

Feline Panleukopenia
Feline distemper is caused by a resistant virus that may remain infectious for more than a year at room temperature on inanimate objects. It is transmitted through blood, urine, feces, nasal secretions and fleas from infected cats. It destroys many of the cat's white blood cells, attacks the intestines and Lymph nodes and is fatal for 50% to 70% of cats. Symptoms: lethargic, vomiting, high fever, dehydration. Sickness can last 3-4 days after first signs are noticed and before death occurs. Highly contagious.

Calicivirus
This disease attacks the lungs and lower respiratory tract causing pneumonia (the cause of 40% of all respiratory diseases in cats). Often complicated by other infections and can be fatal. Ulcers may be seen on the tongue and lips. Calici spreads from cat to cat, generally by sneezing. Highly contagious.

Rhinotracheitis
Rhino attacks the upper respiratory tract. All kittens and cats are at risk, recovery is slow; can be fatal. May become carriers for life; can shed virus intermittently especially when under stress. Symptoms include sneezing, coughing, mucous discharge from eyes and nose. Highly contagious.

FIP - Feline Infectious Peritonitis
FIP affects cats of all ages, but mostly from 6 months to 2 years of age. It is a viral infection that is usually fatal. Symptoms include low-grade upper respiratory infection, anorexia, depression, anemia, vomiting and/or diarrhea. Highly contagious.

Chlamydia Psittaci
Attacks the respiratory tract and produces conjunctivitis. This is a bacteria, not a virus and causes 15%-20% of all feline respiratory diseases. Chlamydia can be transmitted to cattle and humans. Symptoms: inflamed eyes, occasional sneezing, tearing with salivation and coughing and possible fever. Highly contagious.

Leukemia Attacks the immune system and increases susceptibility to other diseases. It is spread via saliva and is eventually fatal. Symptoms include weight loss, recurring or chronic illness, lethargy, fever, diarrhea, unusual breathing patterns and yellow color around the mouth and whites of the eyes.