Over the years feline panleukopenia (FP) has been known by a variety of names; feline distemper, infectious enteritis, cat fever, cat typhoid, and several others.
FP is a highly contagious virus disease that occurs wherever there are cats. Cats at any age may be stricken. Young kittens, sick cats, and indoor cats that have not been given boosters recently are most susceptible; older cats are more likely to have acquired an immunity and, therefore, are infected less frequently.
Kittens less than 16 weeks of age may die at a rate of about 75%, and others at a rate of 50%.
Urban areas are most likely to see outbreaks of FP during the warmer months. The virus has appeared in all parts of the United States and most countries of the world.
Kennels, pet shops, humane shelters, and other areas where groups of cats are quartered appear to be the main reservoirs of FP today.
Dogs are not susceptible to feline panleukopenia. Canine distemper is a different disease caused by another virus. Neither disease is transmissible to man.