Protecting Your Cat From FIP

National Feline Infectious Peritonitis (FIP) Awareness is a serious disease that everyone who owns a cat should be aware of. FIP is caused by a virus called feline coronavirus. While most coronavirus cases are mild, some develop complications, which can be deadly. Continue reading to hear a local Fayetteville, AR vet address some FIP-related issues.

What Causes Feline Infectious Peritonitis?

This coronavirus is quite common, similar to the common cold. According to some research, 25-40% of pet felines are infected with FCoV.

Is the Feline Coronavirus Dangerous?

Feline coronaviruses are not always deadly. In most cases, Fluffy will recover quickly. Many cats exhibit only modest symptoms. You may not even be aware that anything is amiss! However, the mutation can cause major, potentially fatal, issues. Kitties who are elderly or immunocompromised are particularly vulnerable.

Here are a few notes on the feline coronavirus:

• COVID-19 isn’t the only coronavirus. The feline coronavirus and COVID-19 are not the same.
• It will have no effect on humans.
• Coronaviruses typically harm animals’ respiratory or digestive systems.
• Coronavirus infection in cats is rather common.
• The risk is greatest in areas with a large concentration of cats. The infection rate for cats that live with other cats, such as those in colonies, shelters, or multi-cat households, can reach 100 percent.
• Most of the time, the kitty’s symptoms are so faint that they are unnoticeable. Some cats simply get diarrhea.

Who Is Bria?

As you may be aware, many unique animal holidays, causes, and charities have mascots: typically, a special animal who raises awareness of a problem in a particular individual or group of people. In this scenario, that pet is Bria, an attractive lynx blue point Birman kitten that enjoyed playing Fetch and eating peanut butter and jelly sandwiches. (Note: we do not recommend feeding your cat PB&J.)

Susan Gingrich and her husband Jim adopted Bria. As you may expect, the adorable kitty died as a result of FIP complications. Susan, who was heartbroken, dedicated herself to raising awareness about the disease. She approached the EveryCat Health Foundation, which was previously known as the Winn Feline Foundation. It is the only organization on the earth dedicated to funding research on feline health issues. The Bria Fund for FIP Research was established shortly thereafter.

What Are the Risks for FIP?

Any cat infected with feline coronavirus is at risk of developing FIP. However, certain cats are more at risk than others.

Age does play a factor. FIP typically affects young felines. In fact, the vast majority of the cases involve cats under the age of 18 months. About half are less than six months old. Geriatric cats are particularly vulnerable. Finally, purebred cats may be more susceptible.

For further information, ask your Fayetteville, AR veterinarian.

How Does Feline Coronavirus Spread?

The feline coronavirus can spread through a multitude of means. 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 commonly seen in areas with a high cat population, such as animal shelters, catteries, or wild cat colonies.

How Long Can A Cat Live With Fio?

This will depend on the cat’s health and whether they were infected with the effusive or non-effusive form. However, the prognosis is not promising: estimations range from days to weeks for the effusive type of the virus and weeks to months for the non-effusive. 

What Are The Symptoms Of FIP?

Many of the symptoms of FIP might be confused with those of a wide range of disorders. This is why we always recommend getting Fluffy to the vet as soon as you notice anything amiss.

These consist of the following:

• Abdominal Bloating
• Respiratory Issues
• Persistent Fever 
• Decreased Appetite
• Weight Loss
• Depression
• Withdrawal
• Unkempt Fur

If you see any of the above, contact your veterinarian straight away. Remember that symptoms of FIP can advance swiftly.

It’s important to note that FIP might take weeks, months, or even years to develop following the first coronavirus infection.

How Is Fip Managed?

Unfortunately, there is no established treatment for FIP. Typically, treatment efforts are directed on supportive care. Your veterinarian may also recommend certain drugs like prednisone or cyclophosphamide. These are immune suppressants that may assist to slow the disease’s course. However, there is no cure.

If your feline friend has been diagnosed, your veterinarian will be able to discuss your options on an individual basis.

Protecting Your Cat From FIP

Fortunately, proper cat care can go a long way toward keeping your feline companion happy, healthy, and purring. First and foremost, ensure that Fluffy receives preventative treatment from her veterinary clinic. This includes her exams, parasite treatment, and immunizations.

It’s also crucial to keep the litterbox clean. We recommend scooping the litter every day and changing it once a week. If you have more than one cat, you’ll need more boxes.

If you have more than one cat, make sure your feline companions do not have to share litter boxes or food dishes. We also strongly advise you to keep them indoors.

Make sure to ask your Fayetteville, AR veterinarian for more information on how to prevent your kitty friend from FIP.

Make An Appointment At Our Fayetteville, AR Pet Clinic

Do you have any inquiries about your feline companion’s health or care? You are welcome to contact us at any time. As your neighborhood Fayetteville, AR pet hospital, we’re here to help!