Feline Infectious Peritonitis (FIP) is a deadly viral disease caused by a strain of the Feline Coronavirus (FCoV) virus.
Most FCoV infections in cats are mild, causing little to no symptoms, usually manifesting as mild diarrhea. The majority of infected cats (around 95%) will recover with appropriate care and supportive treatment. However, in rare cases, the FCoV mutates into FIP, which is highly fatal, with an untreated mortality rate of 96% in affected cats.
FIP itself is not contagious between cats. The virus that causes FIP is not directly transmitted from one cat to another. However, FCoV, which is the source of FIP, is highly contagious. FCoV resides in the intestinal tract of infected cats and is shed in their feces. Other cats can become infected with FCoV if they come into contact with materials contaminated by infected cat feces.
FIP can manifest in two forms: wet (effusive) and dry (non-effusive).
In the wet form, fluid accumulates in body cavities like the abdomen and chest, leading to abdominal distension and difficulty breathing. The fluid is often yellow in color. In the dry form, inflamed lesions can be found in various organs such as the eyes, kidneys, liver, and nervous system. Symptoms vary depending on which organ is most affected.
The signs and symptoms of FIP are not unique to the disease.
However, cats with FIP commonly exhibit general symptoms such as lethargy, loss of appetite, weight loss, and intermittent fever that does not respond to antibiotics.
Diagnosing FIP in a sick cat is challenging, as there is no definitive test for screening.
Veterinarians must conduct several diagnostic tests, including a physical examination, full panel blood test, assessment of FCoV infection history, and the Rivalta test, among others.
In recent years, significant progress has been made in managing this previously fatal condition. Research by Professor Niels Pedersen of the University of California, Davis, has demonstrated the effectiveness of antiviral drugs like GC-376 and GS-441524 in treating FIP in cats. Among these drugs, GS-441524 has shown the most favorable outcomes, with a positive response rate of approximately 89%.
However, it's important to note that FIP treatment is still costly and requires an extended treatment course of 84 days.
Please keep in mind that FIP remains a serious disease, and not all cats will respond positively to treatment. It is recommended to consult with a veterinarian experienced in FIP management for proper diagnosis and guidance based on your cat's specific condition.
Comments