Can Cats Get Parvo From Dogs?
Parvo is a highly contagious virus that can infect both cats and dogs, but it cannot be passed from one species to the other. In this article, we will discuss how parvo spreads between cats and dogs, what symptoms to look out for, and whether cats are at risk of getting parvo from dogs.
We’ll also go over methods for protecting your pets against parvo infection and provide tips on diagnosing and treating infected animals. So read on to learn more about this serious disease and how you can keep your furry family members safe!
Can Cats Get Parvo From Dogs?
The short answer is no. Parvo virus cannot be passed between cats and dogs because it affects different species differently. The most common type of parvo, known as canine parvovirus (CPV), only affects dogs, while the less common feline panleukopenia virus (FPV) affects cats. Therefore, a dog with CPV cannot pass it to a cat and vice versa.
Risk Factors for Cats
Although cats are not at risk from contracting CPV from infected canines, they can still be exposed to FPV in other ways. For example, if an unvaccinated cat comes into contact with an environment contaminated by the feces of an infected cat then there is a chance that they could become infected.
Protecting Your Pets
- Vaccination: The best way to protect your pet against both CPV and FPV is to make sure that they stay up-to-date on their vaccinations. If you have multiple pets living in the same household or visiting each other often, then it’s important that all of them receive their vaccinations so as to prevent any potential spread of infection.
- Quarantine: If either your dog or cat has been exposed to parvovirus or another infectious disease then it’s important to quarantine them until they have recovered completely. This will help reduce the risk of spreading the virus further and also allow your pet time to heal without putting other animals at risk.
- Cleanliness: Practicing good hygiene around your home and yard can go a long way towards preventing exposure. Regularly clean food bowls, litter boxes, bedding areas, toys etc., especially after any new animals have been introduced into the home environment.
Can Cats Contract Parvo From Dogs?
Parvovirus (also known as parvo) is a highly contagious virus that can affect both dogs and cats, but it is more commonly associated with dogs. While it is possible for cats to contract parvo from dogs, it is much less likely than for a dog to contract the virus from another dog.
How Does Parvo Spread?
Parvovirus is spread through contact with an infected animal’s feces. This means that if an infected dog has recently been in your yard or near a cat’s litterbox, there may be some risk of transmission. It can also be spread through contact with contaminated surfaces such as floors or furniture.
What Are the Symptoms of Parvo in Cats?
The symptoms of parvovirus in cats are similar to those seen in dogs – vomiting, diarrhea, dehydration, fever and loss of appetite. However, due to the fact that cats are generally less susceptible than dogs to this virus, these symptoms may not be as severe or last as long. In addition, some cats may show no signs at all.
How Can I Protect My Cat From Parvo?
- Vaccinate your pet: It’s important to make sure that both your cat and any canine companions have up-to-date vaccinations against parvovirus. Vaccination will provide protection against the most common strains of the virus.
- Practice good hygiene: Make sure you clean up after your pets regularly and dispose of their waste properly so as not to spread any potential infection. Additionally, disinfecting any areas where they have been (including furniture and floors) can help reduce the chances of transmission.
- Keep them separated: If you own both cats and dogs (especially puppies), try to keep them separated whenever possible until all animals have been vaccinated against parvovirus. This will help prevent any potential cross-contamination between species.
Risk of Parvo Infection in Cats
Feline panleukopenia, commonly known as feline parvovirus or “parvo,” is a highly contagious and potentially deadly virus that affects cats. It is spread through contact with contaminated saliva, urine, feces, and even objects like food bowls or litter boxes. The virus can survive for long periods of time outside the body so it’s important to take extra precautions when handling cats that may have been exposed.
Symptoms of Parvo Infection in Cats
The most common symptoms of parvo infection in cats include:
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea (which may contain blood)
- Lethargy and depression
- Lack of appetite
Who Is at Risk?
Cats of any age are susceptible to parvovirus but kittens less than one year old are generally most at risk. Unvaccinated cats living outdoors or those living in shelters or catteries are especially vulnerable. Additionally, certain breeds such as Siamese cats appear to be more prone to developing serious complications from the disease.
Treatment Options
If your cat shows signs of infection, it’s important to seek veterinary care immediately. Treatment will depend on the severity of the illness but may involve hospitalization for supportive care such as intravenous fluids and antibiotics. In some cases antiviral medications may also be prescribed.
Signs and Symptoms of Parvo in Cats
Parvovirus, or “parvo” as it is more commonly known, is a contagious virus that affects cats of all ages. It can cause severe illness and even death if not treated promptly. Knowing the signs and symptoms of parvo in cats can help you get your cat to the vet for treatment as soon as possible.
Common Symptoms
- Vomiting: Vomiting is one of the most common symptoms of parvo in cats. The vomit may contain blood or it may be clear.
- Diarrhea: Diarrhea is another common symptom seen with parvo infections. The stool may have a foul odor and be bloody or tarry.
- Lethargy: Cats infected with parvovirus will often become very lethargic and weak due to dehydration.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, cats can actually get infected with the same virus that causes Parvovirus in dogs. However, due to differences in their anatomy and physiology, cats are much less likely to develop a severe form of this disease. Even if they do become infected, there is still hope for a full recovery through prompt diagnosis and treatment. Pet owners should always practice good hygiene when handling both cats and dogs and be sure to keep all vaccinations up-to-date in order to help prevent the spread of any illnesses between them.

Alexander is the owner of AnimalQnA. He is a pet lover. He has created this blog to share some of his knowledge on different kinds of pets.