Prevalence of feline panleukopenia in domestic cats and current therapeutic methods

Introduction. The causative agent of feline panleukopenia belongs to the Parvoviridae family; it is species-specific to felines and is not transmissible to humans. The particular danger of the disease lies in its rapid course and high mortality rate, especially among kittens, as animals under six months of age exhibit weakened immunity. The virus targets bone marrow and intestinal cells, causing severe inflammatory processes, dehydration, and sepsis.

Objective. To study the prevalence of feline panleukopenia in domestic cats in the city of Kislovodsk and to review current therapeutic methods for managing this infection

Materials and methods. The study focused on data from primary veterinary outpatient record of sick animals admitted to the veterinary clinic “Chip and Dale” in Kislovodsk during the period from 2020 to 2024. Clinical and therapeutic studies using polymerase chain reaction, veterinary rapid tests, and combined rapid tests were conducted in September 2025.

Results. Analysis of the nosological profile of infectious diseases in cats in Kislovodsk from 2020 to 2024 revealed that for five consecutive years, the most common disease was feline viral rhinotracheitis (357 recorded cases), followed by feline panleukopenia (226 cases). This paper examines several clinical cases of feline panleukopenia in detail, where the final clinical diagnosis was established based on a combination of clinical and laboratory data. Laboratory blood tests revealed decreased levels of leukocytes, erythrocytes, and platelets (pancytopenia). Due to the timely visits of the owners to the veterinarian and the subsequent compre hensive treatment of the kittens (infusion therapy, immunostimulants, antiviral therapy, antibiotic therapy, vitamins, antiemetics, antipyretics, analgesics, and probiotics), positive clinical dynamics were successfully achieved. Two weeks post-recovery, the animals were vaccinated, followed by treatment against ecto- and endoparasites a few days later. Booster vaccination (revaccination) was performed after 21 days.

Conclusion. When the first signs of disease appear in cats, immediate consultation with a veterinarian is necessary, and therapeutic measures should be com prehensive and prompt.

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