National Feline Infectious Peritonitis (FIP) Awareness is a critical disease that every cat owner should be aware of. This is a very dangerous disease, one that can have some very serious effects on your cat’s health and well-being. A Lawrenceville, GA veterinarian offers some insight on FIP in this article.
What Is Feline Infectious Peritonitis (FIP)?
FIP is caused by a feline coronavirus. COVID-19 is not the only coronavirus, and the feline coronavirus is not the same as COVID-19. Humans are immune to it.
Coronaviruses typically affect an animal’s respiratory or digestive system. Normally, this coronavirus is relatively harmless. It’s also rather common, much like the common cold. In fact, some research shows that 25-40% of pet felines are infected with FCoV.
The majority of cats with FCoV show mild symptoms and/or recover unaided. Many cats only exhibit minor symptoms. You might not even notice something is amiss! However, some of our feline companions experience issues that can lead to FIP. Approximately 12% continue to develop FIP.
What Kitties Are At Risk For FIP?
The risk is highest in places with a large cat population. Cats living in colonies, shelters, or multi-cat households can have an infection incidence of up to 100%. However, most of the time, the kitty’s symptoms are so subtle that they go unnoticed. Some cats simply get diarrhea.
Any cat with feline coronavirus is at risk of acquiring FIP. However, certain kittens are more vulnerable than others.
Age undoubtedly is a factor. FIP primarily affects young cats. In reality, the majority of cases involve kittens under the age of 18 months. Approximately half are less than six months old. Geriatric cats are also at greater risk, as are purebred cats.
Does Feline Coronavirus Spread Easily?
Feline coronavirus is a viral disease. It can be distributed in several ways. Nursing mothers may transmit it to their kittens. Cats can also spread infection by mutual grooming, sharing bowls, toys, or litterboxes, mating, or fighting.
Because it is an infectious disease, feline coronavirus is most usually seen in regions with a high concentration of cats, such as animal shelters, catteries, or feral cat colonies.
How Long Can Cats Live With FIP?
There is no definitive answer to this. It is determined by the kitty’s condition and whether they are infected with the effusive or non-effusive variety. However, the outlook is bleak: estimates range from days to weeks for the effusive type of the virus and weeks to months for the non-effusive. Your veterinarian will be able to provide more specific information.
What Are The Warning Signs Of FIP?
Many of FIP’s symptoms are similar to those of other illnesses. This is one of the reasons why we always recommend that you take Fluffy to the vet as soon as you notice anything wrong.
Here are some potential symptoms:
- Abdominal Bloating
- Respiratory Problems
- Persistent Fever
- Reduced Appetite
- Weight Loss
- Depression
- Withdrawal
- Unkempt Fur
If you notice any of the following, contact your veterinarian immediately. It is worth noting that FIP might take weeks, months, or even years to develop after an initial coronavirus infection. However, the symptoms of FIP can progress quickly.
How Is FIP Treated?
Unfortunately, there is no official cure for FIP. Prevention is the best option here. Typically, therapeutic efforts focus on providing supportive care. Your veterinarian may also recommend specific medications, such as prednisone or cyclophosphamide. These are immune suppressants that may slow the progression of the disease.
Nonetheless, there is some good news here. Research undertaken over the last three years suggests that antivirals may be useful against FIP. Remdesivir and GS-441524 have been legally available in the UK and Australia since 2021.
How Can I Protect Fluffy from FIP?
Fortunately, basic proper cat care will help keep your feline buddy happy, healthy, and purring. First and foremost, ensure that Fluffy receives preventative treatment. This includes visiting her Lawrenceville, GA veterinarians regularly for check-ups, parasite control, and vaccines.
If you have multiple cats, take extra care. Make sure your feline friends do not have to share litter boxes or food dishes. We would also strongly advise keeping your cat(s) indoors. Keeping the litterbox clean is also essential. We recommend scooping every day and changing the litter roughly once a week.
Ask your Lawrenceville, GA veterinarian for more information on preventing your feline companion from developing FIP.
Book An Appointment At Our Lawrenceville, GA Pet Clinic
Do you have any questions about your feline friend’s health or care? Please feel free to contact us at any time. As your Lawrenceville, GA pet hospital, we’re here to help!
