Urgent warning for pet owners following surge in canine parvovirus and feline panleukopenia

An urgent warning has been issued to dog and cat owners after increased cases of potentially deadly viruses.

Animal Welfare League Queensland (AWLQ) and Greencross Vets have advised pet owners to be on the lookout for symptoms of canine parvovirus (parvo) and feline panleukopenia (panleuk).

The diseases are both highly contagious and, if not treated quickly, can potentially be deadly.

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Particular areas of concern for both viruses are South East Queensland, including Brisbane, Logan, Gold Coast and Ipswich, and Northern New South Wales.

Greencross Vets also warns there have been pockets outbreaks of feline panleukopenia and canine parvovirus in Western Sydney.

Canine parvovirus is difficult to control as it can outlive routine cleaning and changes in weather.

Symptoms to look out for include:

• Loss of appetite
• Lethargy
• Abdominal bloating and pain
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea (which may contain blood)
• Changing body temperature (fever or a lower temperature)

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Feline panleukopenia has a range of symptoms, though some cats, particularly kittens, don't show any signs. Severe cases can result in sudden death so being on the lookout for symptoms and seeking urgent veterinary care is vital.

• Diarrhoea
• Vomiting
• Fever
• Lethargy or depression
• Loss of appetite
• Dehydration (evidenced by sunken eyes or dry gums)
• Abdominal pain

Vaccination is important for preventing both viruses.

“Both parvo and panleuk are extremely costly to treat, and prevention is always the best approach. We strongly encourage pet owners to ensure their animals are up-to-date on their vaccinations. Vaccinating your pets is the best way to protect them from these diseases,” Melinda Phipps, AWLQ's state rehoming manager, said.

Phipps added that the outbreak is the most significant in years, likely as a result of supply issues with cat vaccinations and the rising cost of living.

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Dr Magdoline Awad, chief veterinary officer of Greencross Pet Wellness Company reiterated just how important vaccinations are for the prevention of these viruses.

“The only protection is vaccination, we're encouraging [pet] owners to ensure their pet's vaccinations are up to date,” she urged.

“Keeping unvaccinated [pets] indoors and in a safe environment helps reduce the risk until they can be vaccinated.”

Pet owners in areas of Australia not currently affected by outbreaks should also make sure their dog and cat vaccinations for these viruses are up to date.

“Our advice to all pet owners is to ensure that their dogs and/or cats are vaccinated,” she said.

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