What are the characteristics of the feline Panleukopenia virus (FPLV)?
Panleukopenia (feline distemper) is caused by a virus very similar to the one that causes parvovirus disease in dogs. It is very stable in the environment and can survive years at room temperature. It survives well in lower temperatures as well, and is not killed by many of the common disinfectants. Contact with a bleach solution of one part bleach to 32 parts water for 10 minutes will inactivate the virus. I usually soak items such as; food and water bowls, litter pans, even the cage or floor for 30 minutes. Make sure you have the proper ventilation as the bleach fumes can be harmful. How common is Panleukopenia? The feline Panleukopenia virus is widespread in nature, so virtually all cats are exposed to it within their first year of life. How is the Panleukopenia virus transmitted? FPLV is most commonly transmitted when a susceptible cat has contact with the feces or urine of infected cats. Infected cats shed the virus in their feces and urine up to 6 weeks after they recover. FPLV c
