What Causes Feline Infectious Peritonitis (FIP) in Cats? Symptoms and Prevention Tips

 

Feline Infectious Peritonitis (FIP) in cats was once considered an incurable and fatal disease. While treatments are now available, the risk remains, and cat owners should stay vigilant. Signs that your cat may have FIP include sudden loss of appetite, lethargy, fever, a swollen abdomen, and significant weight loss. In this article, a veterinarian explains what FIP is, its symptoms, and the way of prevention.

What is Feline Infectious Peritonitis?

Feline Infectious Peritonitis (FIP) is a fatal disease caused by a mutation of the feline coronavirus. While many cats may carry FCoV without serious illness, only a small number develop FIP due to this mutation. Cats under the age of three are particularly at risk. The exact cause of the viral mutation remains unknown, though some experts believe it may be linked to conditions like feline leukemia and feline AIDS. Additionally, certain breeds, such as Birman cats, are more susceptible to developing FIP.

Analysis of Feline Infectious Peritonitis Symptoms

Symptoms can present in four forms: wet FIP, dry FIP, nervous system disorders, and eye-related symptoms:

1. Wet FIP

   Accounts for approximately 80% of cases and is characterized by:

• Fluid accumulation in the abdomen, leading to swelling
• Fluid accumulatio in the chest, causing difficulty breathing

2. Dry FIP

   Symptoms of this form are relatively insidious and often include enlargement of the kidneys, liver, intestines, and other internal organs, with nodules or masses that may become visible.
   Other symptoms including：

• Prolonged fever
• Loss of appetite
• Weight loss
• Low energy and lethargy

3. Nervous System Disorders

   Although less common, cats may develop serious neurological problems, such as epilepsy, abnormal gait, and loss of balance.

4. Eye-related Symptoms

   FIP can also impact a cat's vision, leading to gradual vision deterioration and even blindness.

How to Treat and Prevent FIP

In the past, a diagnosis of FIP was almost equivalent to a death sentence. However, since 2017, new antiviral medications, such as Molnupiravir, have emerged, making FIP no longer an untreatable, deadly disease. Additionally, these medications have been legally approved for clinical use in Taiwan. While treatments are now available, FIP remains a high-mortality risk disease; therefore, prevention is the primary goal for protecting cats.

Methods of Prevention

• Avoid Coronavirus Infection: While there is no effective vaccine to prevent FIP, the risk can be reduced through regular screening and the isolation of FIP cats.
• Enhance Immunity: Enhancing a cat's immunity can reduce the risk of infection. It is recommended to supplement cats with lysine, which they cannot synthesize on their own, to boost their resistance, along with providing a nutritionally balanced diet.
• Relieve Anxiety and Stress: Stress is considered one of the factors that may contribute to coronavirus mutation. Supplementing with health products containing tryptophan and GABA can help stabilize mood and reduce anxiety.
• Regular Health Check-up: Arranging regular health check-ups for your cats can help detect potential issues early. Coronavirus screening, in particular, allows for a prompt response if needed.

While FIP is concerning, advancements in medicine have provided new treatment methods to combat the disease. Regular veterinary check-ups, along with preventive care, can help reduce the risk of FIP.
For more information on the best health care options for your pet, don't hesitate to contact the WelPet professional team, who are dedicated to serving you.