Feline infectious peritonitis (FIP) is a serious, contagious viral disease of cats known as coronavirus. Cats of all ages can become infected, but those 6-12 months and over 14 years old are most susceptible. The disease is worldwide and can even affect exotic cats like: lions, cougars, bobcats, lynx, jaguars, and cheetahs.
FIP is transmitted from cat to cat via feces, urine, secretions from the nose and mouth that are inhaled or ingested, and mother to fetus. Nursing kittens can become infected from contaminated milk if mom is infected with the virus.
Cats living in crowded, unsanitary conditions are at high risk of FIP infection. Cats infected with feline leukemia virus (FeLV) or feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) are more susceptible since his/her immune system is compromised.
Cats present with a fluctuating fever that doesn’t respond to antibiotics, lethargy, not eating or drinking, and weight loss. Fluid may build up in the chest or abdomen causing it to look swollen which is called the “wet” form of FIP. The “dry” form causes an inflammatory response in the nervous system, eyes and other organs (liver, kidneys, and spleen).
Once cats are diagnosed with FIP the survival is slight. There is no effective treatment to eliminate the virus once infected. The treatment goal is to make the patient comfortable and improves quality of life.