The virus has appeared in all parts of the United States and most countries of the world. Kennels, pet shops, bording facilities, cat shows, breeding facilities, 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.
FP virus is passed from cat to cat by direct contact.
Infection occurs when contact is made with the blood, urine, fecal material, nasal secretions, and even fleas of infected cats. In most cases, recovered cats do not transmit the infection. A healthy cat can also become infected without coming in direct contact with an infected cat. Bedding, cages, food dishes, and the hands or clothing of handlers may harbor and transmit the virus. The FP virus is very stable.