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Kitten tested positive for panleukopenia after vaccine. Is it false?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Domestic Shorthair | Male | neutered | 2 months and 17 days old | 3.5 lbs

My 10 week old was sick and in the animal hospital for 3 days, he is now home and doing well. The vet just called and said that he tested positive for panleukopenia and Calicivirus, however they are saying they think it is a false positive because he just had his vaccination on the 16th. Is this true or should I be worried?

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Sara Farmer, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on July 29th, 2017

Depending on the test performed, it is possible that this is related to vaccination. If a PCR test was run on a blood sample it is possible to have a false positive depending on the type of vaccine that was given. The good news is that regardless of the results if Calvin is feeling well enough to be back home he will likely continue to recover. Calicivirus is a common virus and many cats are never symptomatic.

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    Answered By Dr Stafford, BVetMed, MRCVS

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    It certainty could have been a false positive. The panleucopenia test is fairly sensitive. Moreover, panleucopenia usually causes really severe symtoms and takes a good while to get over so the fact your kitty is doing so well would support it being a false positive. I hope Calvin continues to do well, try not to wworry about this!

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