What is FIP in cats: Symptoms, Treatment, and Prevention
Feline Infectious Peritonitis (FIP) is a serious, fatal disease in cats caused by a mutated strain of the feline coronavirus (FCoV). At Animal Mama Hospital, we have successfully treated over 600 cats with 98% of remission rate! Today, we want to help you understand what FIP is, how it affects your cat, and what can be done to manage and prevent this condition.
Published on
December 12, 2024
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What is Feline Infectious Peritonitis (FIP)?
FIP is a viral disease that occurs when the benign feline coronavirus (FCoV), which is common among cats, mutates inside the cat’s body. The resulting FIP virus triggers a severe inflammatory response, primarily affecting the abdominal lining, chest cavity, and even the nervous system.
FIP is most commonly seen in young cats under two years of age, particularly in multi-cat environments like shelters or catteries. It is important to note that not all cats exposed to the Feline Coronavirus will develop FIP. Only a small percentage of cases progress to this deadly form of the virus. The cause of mutation is still not well understood.
Types of FIP: wet vs. dry forms
There are two main forms of FIP: Wet FIP and Dry FIP.
- Wet FIP (Effusive FIP) is characterized by the accumulation of fluid in the cat’s abdomen or chest, causing swelling and difficulty breathing.
- Dry FIP (Non-effusive FIP) does not involve fluid buildup but instead causes lesions on organs, including the liver, kidneys, and eyes, leading to more subtle and varied symptoms.
- Ocular FIP: This form affects the eyes, leading to symptoms such as redness, cloudiness, pupil irregularities, and impaired vision. If left untreated, it can lead to blindness.
- Neurological FIP: This form impacts the brain and nervous system, causing neurological symptoms such as unsteady movement, tremors, head tilting, and even seizures. This can progress quickly and may be misinterpreted as other neurological conditions.
All types of FIP are dangerous and fatal, but the wet form tends to progress more rapidly.
Symptoms of FIP in cats
FIP symptoms are very difficult to detect early, but here are some common signs to watch for:
- Persistent fever that does not respond to antibiotics
- Loss of appetite and weight loss
- Recurrent GI infections, such as diarria.
- Lethargy and lack of energy
- Swollen abdomen (especially in wet FIP)
- Breathing difficulties
- Eye inflammation or changes in vision
- Neurological symptoms such as twitching, wobbling, or seizures (in some cases)
Since FIP shares symptoms with many other illnesses, it’s critical to contact your veterinarian if your cat shows any of these signs. Animal Mama Hospital provides various veterinary services in Cambodia, including specific tests and vaccinations. You can always contact Animal Mama Hospital to make an appointment.
How is FIP diagnosed?
Diagnosing FIP can be challenging because there’s no single test that can definitively confirm the disease. Your veterinarian will likely perform a combination of tests, including:
- Blood tests to look for elevated protein levels, low white blood cells, or anemia
- Ultrasound or X-rays to check for fluid buildup or organ inflammation
- Analysis of abdominal or chest fluid (for wet FIP)
- Snap tests
- Revalta Test (for wet form)
While these tests can help diagnose FIP, confirmation often requires ruling out other diseases with similar symptoms.
Is there a treatment for FIP?
FIP has historically been considered fatal, but new experimental treatments are showing promise.
The use of antiviral drugs like GS-441524 (a nucleoside analogue related to Remdesivir) has provided hope for cats diagnosed with FIP. However, access to these treatments can vary depending on the country, and they often require close veterinary supervision.
While not all cats respond to treatment, early intervention can significantly improve survival rates.
How can FIP be prevented?
Currently, there is no reliable vaccine for FIP, and prevention mainly revolves around reducing your cat’s risk of exposure to the feline coronavirus. Here’s how you can minimize the chances of your cat developing FIP:
- Maintain a clean living environment to reduce exposure to infectious agents.
- Limit the number of cats in one space, especially in multi-cat households or shelters.
- Isolate new cats for a few weeks before introducing them to other cats.
- Regular veterinary check-ups to catch early signs of illness.
While preventing Feline Coronavirus is challenging, maintaining a low-stress, hygienic environment can help reduce the risk of FIP development.
What to do if your cat is diagnosed with FIP
If your cat has been diagnosed with FIP, it’s essential to work closely with your veterinarian to explore treatment options and provide supportive care. At Animal Mama Hospital, our veterinary team is here to guide you through the diagnosis and treatment process, offering compassionate support for both you and your pet.
Can a cat that has recovered from FIP get it again?
Yes, it is possible for a cat that has recovered from FIP to develop the disease again, although it's rare. This can happen due to several factors:
- Different Strains: The cat may be exposed to a different strain of the feline coronavirus that can lead to FIP.
- Immune System Weakness: If the cat's immune system is compromised, it may be more susceptible to developing FIP again.
- Incomplete Remission: In some cases, the initial treatment may not have completely eradicated the virus, allowing for a recurrence.
Regular veterinary check-ups and monitoring are essential for cats that have previously had FIP to ensure their health and detect any potential issues early.
Protect your cat from FIP
FIP is a devastating disease, but awareness and early action are critical in managing it. Regular veterinary care, maintaining a healthy environment, and monitoring your cat for any signs of illness can make all the difference.
If you have concerns about FIP or your cat’s health, don’t hesitate to contact Animal Mama Hospital. We’re here to provide expert care and advice to keep your pets healthy and happy.
FAQ: Feline Infectious Peritonitis (FIP)
- Can indoor cats get FIP?
Yes, although less common, indoor cats can develop FIP if exposed to the feline coronavirus.
- Is FIP contagious to other cats?
FIP itself is not contagious, but the feline coronavirus (FCoV), which may mutate into FIP, can spread among cats.
- What’s the survival rate for cats with FIP?
Without treatment, FIP is fatal, but newer treatments have improved survival rates, especially with early intervention.
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