Metacam Treatment for FIP in Cats

Metacam treatment for any illness, including Feline Infectious Peritonitis (FIP), does include some risks, and veterinarians always caution pet owners to know and understand these risks before allowing treatment with this drug. Metacam is not considered a traditional treatment for FIP.

  1. FIP

    • FIP is a serious viral disease found in cats and is more likely to occur when there are a high number of cats in close proximity. FIP is a fatal disease, although treatments may result in short remissions. Any treatment for a cat diagnosed with FIP is mostly to increase the animal's comfort and quality of life. It is a difficult disease to diagnose and also difficult to treat, according to the WINN Feline Foundation.

    Metacam

    • The brand name for metacam is Meloxicam, and is a drug that is typically prescribed by a vet for inflammation, pain and arthritis. Uses of the drug are "control of postoperative pain and inflammation associated with orthopedic surgery, ovario-hysterectomy and castration when administered prior to surgery," according to the drug's manufacturer, Boehringer Ingelheim Vetmedica. Though not a common treatment for FIP, some veterinarians have used this drug.

    Common Side Effects

    • The drug can be tricky to administer properly, because the margin between a safe dose and a toxic dose is quite narrow. Common side effects of metacam are nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, nose bleeds and weight loss.

    Severe Side Effects

    • More severe side effects include stomach ulcers, internal bleeding and liver disease. Some vets will not prescribe this medication to treat cats. If after taking this medication, your pet exhibits any of the side effects, stop using the medication and ask about alternative treatments. Particularly in older cats, the use of metacam can damage the liver, leading to renal failure. An FDA study of the drug showed that of 305 cats treated with the drug, 105 died of renal failure.

    Traditional FIP Treatments

    • Cats with FIP are often treated with steroids and antibiotics, and treatment can sometimes include blood transfusions and fluid therapy. Vets will often prescribe drugs that suppress the immune system, which can help the animal temporarily. However, in most cases a cat with FIP will ultimately have to be humanely euthanized.