Canine Parvo and Feline Parvo, are they the same?
Parvoviruses are a large group; almost every mammal species seems to have its own parvovirus.Fortunately, each virus is pretty specific about what animals it can infect. For example, the canine parvovirus will not infect cats, but it could and most likely will affect most members of the dog family (wolves, coyotes, foxes etc.)
The disease is highly infectious and is spread by physical contact and contact with feces. Areas infected with canine parvovirus or "feline parvo" (water and food bowls, bedding, floors, crates, etc) need to be disinfected with a bleach solution (1:30 ratio. 4 oz of chlorine per each gallon of water). Be careful when using it on carpets or fabrics.
Canine Parvo
The virus is very similar to feline distemper; in fact, they are almost identical, except for two amino acids. The origin of canine parvovirus is unknown, but it has been theorized that it is a mutation of feline panleukopenia (feline distemper) virus.One of the difference among them is that canine parvovirus is not enveloped in fat the way the distemper virus is, so canine parvovirus is especially resistant in the environment.
Parvovisuses are not airborne, they spread in saliva, urine, and feces, but some people find that their pet contracted the disease without ever leaving their property or having contact with other infected dogs. This is because if other individual, (animal or human) steps in the infected feces, can "bring home" the virus.
Feline Distemper ("Feline Parvo" or Panleukopenia Virus)
The feline distemper virus is a "parvovirus". Many people are familiar with this term as parvovirus infection is a very real concern for dogs, especially puppies.This virus is similar in nature to the dog's parvo virus, however is only infectious to cats. Most cats affected are young and unvaccinated. In vaccinated cats, the disease is virtually non-existent.
The virus is spread in saliva, urine, and feces. Areas infected with feline panleukopenia need to be disinfected with a bleach solution (1:30 ratio. 4 oz of chlorine per each gallon of water).
Prevention through routine vaccination is extremely effective.
Canine Parvo Symptoms vs. Feline Parvo (F. Panleukopenia) Symptoms
Both diseases show similar symptoms:- diahrrea
- vomiting
- appetite loss
- fever
- lethargy
These are serious diseases that could lead to death. They must be treated immediately and your pet must receive supportive therapy to avoid the shut down of your pet's body systems due to dehydration.
What is the Treatment for Parvo?
If your cat or dog presents diahrrea or the symptoms listed above, you must take him to their veterinarian immediately.Treatment usually consists of IV fluids, antibiotics, but when it comes to a virus there is no cure. The key is to prevent your dog or cat from dehydrating and administer therapy to support your pet's body until it finally overcomes the infection.
Ask your veterinarian about a natural remedy for parvo that not only helps your pet cope with the symptoms but also serves as an oral homeopathic vaccine to immunize your dog against Parvovirus.
Recommended Product for Parvo
Parvo-K© 2007. Mariangie Gonzalez has a major in Animal Science and runs the day-to-day operations of her business www.MindBodyAndPaw.com. Visit to learn how natural remedies and herbal supplements could prolong and improve your pet's life.