Assessment of the Canine Parvovirus Rapid Test in the Detection of Feline Panleukopenia. Case Study

Abstract

Introduction: Feline panleukopenia (FPV) is a highly contagious viral disease with high mortality in unvaccinated young cats. Due to the genetic similarity between feline and canine parvovirus, rapid immunochromatographic tests designed for dogs are frequently used in feline clinical practice. Materials and methods: We present a clinical case of a 3-month-old female cat, with no prior vaccinations or deworming, who presented with lethargy, decreased appetite, vomiting, and diarrhea. A complete physical examination, complete blood count, fecal examination, and rapid immunochromatographic test (CPV/CCV/Giardia Ag) were performed on a fecal sample. Results: The patient presented with fever (40.5°C), mild dehydration, abdominal pain, and a lower limit of normal white blood cell count (6.53 × 10⁹/L). The fecal examination showed increased bacterial microbiota, mucus, and fat. The rapid test was positive for canine parvovirus antigen. Supportive treatment was initiated with fluid therapy, antibiotics (ampicillin), antiemetic (maropitant), and analgesia (dipyrone). The patient showed clinical improvement within 6 hours, with resolution of vomiting within 24 hours and normalization of fecal matter within 48 hours. She was discharged on the second day. Discussion: The rapid CPV test demonstrated diagnostic utility in felines, supporting bibliographic findings that indicate adequate sensitivity, although with limitations in specificity. The mild leukopenia observed may have masked the typical clinical presentation, but the clinical-laboratory correlation allowed for timely diagnosis. Conclusions: The rapid canine parvovirus test is a valuable and accessible diagnostic tool for the detection of feline panleukopenia in clinical settings, especially when combined with the evaluation of clinical and hematological signs, although the results should be confirmed with specific tests when clinical suspicion persists.