My kitten has feline distemper. How to isolate and clean my home?
If Barney has already been infected with parvovirus (typically called panleukopenia in cats) by your unvaccinated kitten, then there's no need to separate them at this point. However, if you have any other cats in your home, then Barney and the unvaccinated kitten should be strictly isolated from the other cats. If you have other cats in your home, disinfecting with diluted bleach daily is important to prevent further spread. If you do not have other cats, then it's reasonable to wait until both kittens have recovered before thoroughly disinfecting with bleach. With a parvovirus, reinfection is not typically an issue, as it can be with other viruses. If either kitten becomes lethargic, experiences vomiting and/or diarrhea, refuses to eat, or develops any neurologic changes, they should be examined by your vet right away. I've attached a few links below for further reading. I hope that Barney and his friend both make speedy recoveries!
https://www.petcoach.co/cat/condition/panleukopenia/
https://www.petcoach.co/article/panleukopenia-feline-distemper-in-cats-kittens/
Updated on September 23rd, 2025