Feline panleukopenia [pan-loo-kow-PEE-nee-ah] is a viral disease that often kills or severely debilitates cats — especially kittens and sick or unvaccinated adult cats. It’s extremely contagious and can spread like wildfire through shelters and kennels.

The feline panleukopenia virus, also called FPV, attacks rapidly growing cells, like those in the intestines, bone marrow and developing fetuses. Kittens under five months of age are most vulnerable to dying from FPV. Those that survive often have brain damage, resulting in tremors and coordination problems — even seizures and blindness.

Vaccination against FPV is recommended for all cats. Because pregnant cats can pass infection to their unborn kittens, it’s important that they have a series of initial vaccinations followed by a booster every 3 years.