Beware of feline panleukopenia virus

Me and Ow here, and we have been asked to discuss feline distemper, which is caused by the panleudopenia virus. This highly contagious disease affects kittens and unvaccinated cats. It is one of the deadliest diseases in the unvaccinated cat population.

Unfortunately, feline distemper virus is everywhere in the environment. It is a super survivor and can withstand freezing temperatures and many disinfectants including alcohol. A silent hitchhiker, the virus catches a ride on shoes, paws, bedding, bowls, and litter boxes.

The virus enters the body through the nose or mouth and infects the bone marrow and intestines. It effectively suppresses the production of all white blood cells in the bone marrow. This leaves the immune system vulnerable to infection and to spreading the virus.

This virus spreads quickly and left untreated is fatal. It kills the dividing cells in the bone marrow, intestines, skin, and in the developing fetus. Most infections are due to environmental factors; however, an infected cat can have infected kittens. Many times an infected fetus will die.

Fortunately, infected cats only shed viruses for a couple of days, but the hardy virus can live for years waiting to strike. There are no specific treatments for the virus; however, some symptoms, including dehydration, vomiting, and diarrhea respond to IV fluids and prescription medications. It is ideal to disinfect all areas and objects where an infected 

cat may have been.

The best offense is a good defense and vaccinating your cat is the first line of defense. The vaccine for panleukopenia is part of the core vaccine series for cats and is so effective that one dose provides a lifelong immunity. If a cat survives feline panleukopenia, they develop a lifelong immunity to the virus.

We are lucky because our mom makes sure we have our vaccinations and keeps us inside.

XOXO

Me and Ow

LOOKING FOR A HOME

We have six adorable six-month-old puppies. There are three girls and three boys.

We also have 15 fluffy kittens ages 15 to 20 weeks. There are nine boys and six girls in a rainbow of colors. All our babies need foster homes. Call 775-7500 for details.

IN NEED OF

Folks to attend “Going to the Pound” at the Grid on Saturday.

Fancy Feast kitten wet food.

Cat litter for our guests’ comfort.

Aluminum cans. We will pick up your cans; give us a call at 775-423-7500. You can also drop them off at CAPS.

SHOUT OUT TO

The wonderful couple who brought homemade hot cookies to CAPS volunteers at the car/dog wash. Millions of pooch smooches to you!

Linda Vincent for the Blue Ribbon quilt we are raffling. All tails are wagging for you!

COME SEE US

We will be at The Grid on Saturday 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. with “Going to the Pound.” We are impounding and setting bail for local volunteers. To make bail, they will need to call friends and relatives for monetary support. We will also raffle Linda Vincent’s Blue Ribbon quilt at the end of the day. Tickets are available and you do not need to be present to win.

CAPS is open to the public on Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. We suggest appointments for adoptions and food pantry.

DON’T FORGET

November Holiday: National Senior Pet Month

If you would like a newsletter, call 775-423-7500 or email caps@cccom.net.

CAPS’ mailing address is P.O. Box 5128, Fallon, NV 89407. CAPS’ phone number is 775-423-7500. CAPS’ email address is caps@cccomm.net. Please visit the CAPS website (www.capsnevada.com) and Facebook page (Churchill Animal Protection Society). Be sure to “Like” CAPS on Facebook because we are likeable.

Over the rainbow: If you would like your pet remembered send his/her name and a short description to Kathleen Williams-Miller, a CAPS volunteer. Email jkwmil@outlook.com.