FIP is an awful disease that one hopes to never deal with. Feline Infectious Peritonitis or FIP is a strain of what is commonly called the corona virus ( a kitty cold ). There are 12 different kinds of corona virus of which FIP is one. While most corona virus’ are easily treatable, FIP is fatal.

Corona virus is very common and many cats have already been in contact with it especially if your cat has been in contact with any other cats. Cats that have been in contact with corona virus are at risk of developing FIP, but this does not necessarily mean that the cat will get sick.

The most likely felines to develop FIP are ones with a weakened immune system. Most cats with FIP tend to be younger than 2 years, but the reality is that any age cat can contract the disease. The newest research is developing medications that prolong quality of life and also shows that the disease is not contagious.

FIP is a very uncommon disease in the general population. Rescues, shelters and breeders may see more of FIP since they are logically dealing with a larger population of cats.

Diagnosing FIP can pose a particular challenge to vets because the disease can mimic a variety of other illnesses. Most common are kitty colds and diarrhea.

FIP comes in two forms- effusive or wet FIP and noneffusive or dry FIP. The wet form of FIP causes a build up of fluid in the chest and abdomen over a short period of time. Wet FIP can happen very quickly and take a kitty’s life. The dry form is a slow wasting away of the cat with most cats developing a prominent spine and no reason for it.

Diagnosing FIP can be another challenge because there is no actual test for it. Tests are specifically for the corona virus but there are 12 types of those. Most vets will only make a diagnosis based on the symptoms. Treatment is not very helpful and the disease is ultimately fatal.

Be sure to talk to your vet about FIP and make a plan for your home. If you are planning to add a new furry friend you will definitely want to keep the cats separate for some time. Protecting your cats from infection and stress is key.

Find the perfect cat trees for your kitty by visiting Dawn’s site where you can find a quality cat condo that your cat can depend on.

Responses are currently closed, but you can trackback from your own site.

Comments are closed.