Other signs in later stages may be diarrhea, anemia, and persistent vomiting. Diagnosis Diagnosis is based upon vaccination history, history of exposure, symptoms found on clinical examination, and blood testing to rule out the presence of other diseases such as feline leukemia virus, feline immunodeficiency virus, or feline infectious peritonitis virus. The veterinarian will attempt to combat extreme dehydration, provide nutrients, prevent secondary infection with antibiotics, and provide support as deemed necessary depending upon the severity of the disease. If the cat survives for 48 hours, its chances for recovery are much better. Pregnant females that contract the disease, even in its mildest form, may give birth to kittens with mild to severe brain damage.
Strict isolation is essential.
The area where the cat is kept should be warm, free of drafts and very clean. The prognosis for kittens less than 8 weeks old is poor. Older cats have greater chance of survival if adequate treatment is provided early in the course of the disease. Treatment is limited to supportive therapy to help the patient gain and retain sufficient strength to combat the virus with its own immune system. There are no antibiotics that can kill the virus.