Feline infectious peritonitis in cats

One of the most contagious diseases known to veterinary medicine is also one of the most elusive. And, unfortunately, it is also one of the most dangerous. Known as Feline Infectious Peritonitis and commonly referred to as FIP, this disease is very difficult to diagnose. At present there is no definitive test to determine whether or not an animal is infected with the virus. And although the incidence of FIP is relatively low, there is no cure for it.

Symptoms of feline infectious peritonitis

Cats suffering from the most severe form of the disease-known as wet FIP-may exhibit fever, weight loss, kidney and liver disorders, eye disease, anemia and loss of appetite. The most common symptom of wet FIP is a progressive, though painless swelling of the abdomen; fluid can also collect in the chest. These symptoms indicate injury to the circulatory system, If the infected cat has a good appetite and is not suffering from anemia, treatment can afford temporary relief. Unfortunately, the animal's immune system, in an attempt to fight off the FIP virus, only speeds the spread of the disease. Once signs of illness appear, FIP is nearly always fatal.

Is your cat at risk for FIP?

Is your cat likely to get FIP? Researchers have found that a substantial percentage of the feline population has developed immunity to the group of pathogens that includes the FIP virus. Animals who are allowed outdoors, however, are at greater risk of contracting the disease. FIP is also more likely to infect very old and relatively young cats, especially those under 2 years of age.

And because FIP is easily spread through the saliva, urine and feces, felines who live together-either in multi-cat households or catteries-have a higher incidence of the disease. Sneezing, hissing, shared bedding, litterboxes, food and water dishes are all ways for the virus to be passed from one cat to another.

Vaccine for FIP is recommended for outside cats

In 1991, a vaccine was developed to help prevent FIP. The vaccine is administered as nose drops. After the first dosage at four months of age, a second one should be given 3 to 4 weeks later, and once annually thereafter. As the majority of cats are not at high risk for this disease, veterinarians do not routinely vaccinate against it. There is also some controversy over how effective it is. Nevertheless, PetDoc recommends vaccination against FIP if your pet is allowed outdoors or lives in a household with other cats. Responsible breeders, too, should afford their animals this protection. By taking into account your pet's level of risk, your veterinarian can determine whether or not you should have your cat vaccinated against FIP.