Survival rates in feline panleukopenia

In this study, 117 cases of shelter cats that were infected with Feline Panleukopenia virus (FPV) were analysed.

The severity of FPV is related to the intensity of clinical signs and how abnormal the blood count is, particularly regarding leukopenia. Experts classify FPV ranging from subclinical to peracute, the latter usually having a deadly outcome.

The authors reported a discharge rate of about 20.3% and a median survival time of 3 days. Their findings also indicate that lethargy, lower body weight, hypothermia (particularly in kittens) and persistent leukopenia after the third day of hospitalization were associated with a very poor prognosis.

Regarding medical therapy, broad spectrum antibiotics, maropitant and parasite treatment (especially in shelter cats) were associated with higher rates of survival. Surprisingly, IV glucose administration lowered survival rates and recombinant feline interferon-ω was of no measurable benefit.

In Survival estimates and outcome predictors for shelter cats with feline panleukopenia virus infection; Federico Porporato, et al.; Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association 2018