Signs & Symptoms of Illnesses in End-Stage FIP in Cats

Feline infectious peritonitis, or FIP, is a disease that attacks young or weakened cats. Early stages of FIP may difficult to detect, and the disease can progress rapidly over a period of months to end-stage symptoms, which can be difficult to treat. FIP does not have a cure and is always fatal. Treatments are generally palliative, to make the cat as comfortable as possible. Euthanasia may be necessary to prevent undue suffering.

  1. Definition

    • Feline infectious peritonitis is caused by certain strains of the feline coronavirus. Though not all strains of the virus cause disease, 5 to 10 percent of cats will become infected with the virulent strain and develop FIP, according to the Cornell University website. Kittens, cats with other diseases and older cats are particularly susceptible to FIP because their immune systems are not strong enough to fight the infection. The virus can live in the environment for weeks and is easily transmitted in households with multiple cats.

    Symptoms

    • FIP has both a wet form and a dry form. In the dry form, vague symptoms of fever, sneezing or diarrhea may come and go; weight loss and a generally ill appearance are common. This form can mimic other diseases, such as diabetes, liver impairment, cancer or inflammatory bowel disease. The wet form of the disease carries the same symptoms, with the addition of fluid retention in the abdomen or chest. The onset of symptoms is generally faster with the wet form. As the disease progresses to the end stage, the brain and spinal cord can also be affected, causing behavioral changes, incontinence and paralysis.

    Treatment

    • Blood tests, fluid analysis and X-rays tell the veterinarian whether your cat has FIP. Ultrasounds indicate the presence of fluid in the organs. A biopsy of affected tissues indicates changes in the tissues that help to confirm FIP. Treatments include corticosteroids, cytotoxic drugs and antibiotics to control inflammation. The veterinarian may need to drain fluids that accumulate or offer intravenous nutrition and medications. Blood transfusions may also be administered.

    Prevention

    • Other cats in a household that has lost a cat to feline infectious peritonitis have probably been exposed to the virus and fought off the disease. Good nutrition, regular veterinary care and good sanitation help prevent FIP in households with multiple cats. If a cat in the household has died of FIP, you should wait at least a month before bringing in any new cats. Though an FIP vaccine is available, it offers limited protection from the disease.