My cat has Parvo. What home care can I give for diarrhea and recovery?

Parvo virus in cats (also known as panleukopenia) is a very serious illness with a poor prognosis. If Blue was not tested for feline panleukopenia and his diagnosis was an educated guess, it may be that the bloody stool and vomiting were caused by some other bacterial or viral infection, or intestinal parasites. I do hope that he continues to get better and go back to completely normal! A true panleukopenia virus infected cat can continue to shed virus particles for 6 weeks. I do recommend that he be seen by the vet to start vaccinations next week to prevent other viral infections that are prevented with proper vaccination. Here is some more information on panleukopenia virus in cats: http://www.veterinarypartner.com/Content.plx?P=A&S=0&C=0&A=1983

This kitten was likely already exposed to it before you go it. This disease can be fatal but hydration is the key. It is a virus so supportive care is all you can do until it passes. Most turn the corner within a week of treatment starting with no more vomiting followed by an appetite returning.

I am so sorry to hear that MJ is so ill. Parvo is a serious illness and is best treated aggressively in the hospital. This is because they can give her IV fluids to keep her hydrated and medications by injection. If you bring her home, you will have to continue to give her fluids under the skin which is not as effective as IV fluids. You will also have to give her medications by mouth which she may vomit right back up. If you are able to continue to keep her in the hospital, this will give her the best chance of survival. If you are unable to keep her in the hospital, then you must be prepared to treat her constantly at home. They can survive this virus, but it usually takes very aggressive and constant treatment. Although even with aggressive treatment and despite our best efforts, they can still pass away. I am so sorry you and MJ are going through this. I really hope that she will be able to beat this.

Yes, it's very important for Loki to eat. If a cat goes too long without eating (about 72 hours), they will develop a fatty liver which is fatal without treatment. The sooner he eats, the better, but he's in the best place possible.

A high calorie liquid diet such as viyo recuperation or royal canin gastrointestinal liquid diets are the easiest for her to digest when recovering, as well as oral electrolyte (salt and sugar solutions) which can be offered for her to drink or syringe fed. If the vomiting is still persistent she will require injectable fluids and nausea medications by your vet

If she's stopped having diarrhea, this is a good sign. I hope that she has some medication on board for nausea and vomiting - if not, your vet should be able to prescribe some for you to give at home. Normally, with parvo, the best sign of recovery is when they have gone 24 hours without any vomiting and are eating on their own - until then, you need to continue treatment with fluids and other supportive care.

With appropriate and intensive treatment chances of recovery are usually good. The response to the first days of treatment is essential, but for sure the fact that you went straight to your veterinarian increases the chances a lot. Hope this answer was helpful, but please do not hesitate to contact us again on the forum or by requesting a consultation if you have any more questions or to discuss it any further.