Feline Infectious Peritonitis (FIP) is a deadly disease that all cat owners should be aware of. That’s quite a mouthful. In the veterinary care field, we commonly refer to Feline Infectious Peritonitis as FIP. FIP is an extremely dangerous—and often fatal—disease. Continue reading to learn more about FIP from a local Haddon Township, NJ veterinarian.
Feline Infectious Peritonitis Basics
The virus that causes FIP is a feline coronavirus. Normally, this coronavirus is rather benign. It’s also extremely frequent, comparable to the common cold. However, the mutation can result in very catastrophic, potentially fatal, consequences.
Feline coronavirus is not always a hazard. In fact, most of the time, Fluffy recovers quickly. Many cats have just minor symptoms. You may not even realize there is a problem! However, some of our feline companions do develop difficulties that might lead to FIP. Senior cats and those with impaired immune systems are especially vulnerable.
Feline Coronaviruses Basics
The feline coronavirus does not affect people. It is one among a number of coronaviruses. Coronaviruses commonly infect the respiratory or digestive systems of animals.
Coronavirus infection is rather prevalent in cats. According to certain studies, 25-40% of pet felines are infected with FCoV.
The majority of cats who contract FCoV exhibit minor symptoms and/or recover rapidly. About 12% go on to create FIP.
Where Can Cats Contract FIP?
Feline coronavirus is most commonly seen in areas with a high cat population, such as animal shelters, catteries, or wild cat colonies, due to its contagious nature. It can spread in a number of ways. Mother cats may pass it on to their kittens. Mutual grooming, sharing bowls, toys, or litterboxes, mating, or fighting are other options.
Sharing litterboxes with an ill cat is the most prevalent way for kittens to contract FIP. The risk is greatest where there are a large number of cats. The infection rate for cats living in colonies, shelters, or even multi-cat households can be as high as 100%. However, the kitty’s symptoms are usually so modest that they go unnoticed. Some cats experience only a spell of diarrhea.
Any feline coronavirus-infected cat is at risk of developing FIP. However, some cats are at a higher danger.
Age is undoubtedly an important factor. FIP typically affects young cats. In reality, the majority of instances involve cats under the age of 18 months. About half are under the age of six months. Older cats are also more vulnerable. Finally, purebred cats may be at an increased risk.
For more information, speak with your Haddon Township, NJ veterinarian.
How Long Can a Kitty Live with FIP?
It depends on the cat’s health and whether it has been infected with the effusive or non-effusive form. However, the prognosis is not good: predictions range from days to weeks for the effusive form of the virus and weeks to months for the non-effusive type. After inspecting your cat, your doctor will be able to provide you with more detailed information.
What Are the Signs of FIP?
The symptoms of FIP might be perplexing because they can be caused by a variety of illnesses. This is one of the reasons we always, always urge getting Fluffy to the vet as soon as you sense anything amiss.
The following are some examples:
- Swollen Belly
- Respiratory Concerns
- Fever
- Decreased Appetite
- Losing Weight
- Depression
- Withdrawal
- Unkempt Fur
If you detect any of these issues, contact your veterinarian straight away.
Remember that with FIP, symptoms can escalate quickly. However, it can also develop weeks, months, or even years after the initial coronavirus infection.
How is FIP Treated?
Unfortunately, no official cure exists. Typically, treatment efforts focus on supportive care. This could include things like ensuring Fluffy has enough hydration. Your veterinarian may also prescribe certain drugs, such as prednisone or cyclophosphamide. These are immune suppressants that may halt the progression of the disease. It is crucial to note, however, that there is no cure.
What Can You Do to Keep Your Cat Safe From FIP?
Fortunately, simple proper cat care can go a long way toward keeping your feline friend happy, healthy, and purring. First and foremost, keep Fluffy’s preventative care on track. This includes veterinary exams, parasite control, and vaccines.
Maintaining a clean litterbox is also essential. We suggest scooping daily and changing the litter once a week. If you have more than one cat, you will also need more than one box. Fluffy’s powder room should be located somewhere quiet, away from her food and drink. The litterbox should not be placed in a drafty region or in direct sunlight.
You should take extra care if you have more than one cat. Make sure your feline companions do not have to share litterboxes or food dishes. We also strongly advise that you keep your cat or cats indoors.
Ask your Haddon Township, NJ veterinarian for further information about protecting your kitty companion from FIP.
Schedule An Appointment At Our Haddon Township, NJ Pet Clinic
Do you have any concerns about your feline friend’s health and care? You may contact us at any time. As your neighborhood Haddon Township, NJ pet hospital, we’re here to assist!
