Here at Cronulla Vet Clinic we need to make our clients aware of a recent Feline Infectious Enteritis (FIE, also known as feline parvo or Feline Panleukopenia) outbreak in Sydney.
FIE has been dormant for nearly 40 years following eradication of the virus with vaccinations. However, in the last two years the virus has reared its ugly head in Melbourne, and now has appeared to travel north and has hit Sydney.
Cats and kittens in Sydney are now at risk again for contracting FIE and owners need to be on the alert. FIE can affect cats of any age, with kittens being the most vulnerable.
Signs include:
- Bloody vomiting and diarrhoea
- Fever
- Lethargy
- Inability to eat or drink
Treatment includes intensive in-hospital supportive care, intravenous fluids, and assisted feeding. Because FIE is a viral infection, there is no cure, and affected cats usually die quickly from dehydration and secondary infections.
The good news is that this disease is preventable! Vaccination is a safe and effective way of preventing your cat from contracting the virus. Research has shown that every cat recently diagnosed with FIE in Sydney was either unvaccinated or had not completed their full course of vaccinations and annual boosters. Therefore, it is vital that your cat is vaccinated to protect it, and this is not limited to cats with access to the outdoor. The virus can be brought in by flies and particles on footwear, and therefore, it is important that all cats be vaccinated to maintain proper immune status against the disease.
Vaccination protocols include an initial vaccination administered between 6-8 weeks of age, with two follow-up boosters at 10-12 weeks and 14-16 weeks, and then annual boosters thereafter.
If you have any questions or concerns regarding your cat, please do not hesitate to contact us at Cronulla Vet Clinic on 02 9527 2604.