FIP Symptoms in Cats: Causes, Signs, and Treatment

Feline Infectious Peritonitis (FIP) is a devastating disease that affects cats worldwide. Caused by a mutation of the feline coronavirus (FCoV), FIP primarily impacts cats with compromised immune systems. In this article, we’ll delve into the symptoms of FIP in cats, how it spreads, its final stages, and methods for prevention and treatment.

How Do Cats Get FIP?

FIP develops from the feline coronavirus (FCoV), which is common among cats and usually asymptomatic or mild. Most cats infected with FCoV recover without severe illness. However, in rare cases, the virus mutates inside the cat’s body, leading to FIP. This mutation typically occurs in:

1. Young Cats: Kittens under two years of age are especially vulnerable due to their developing immune systems.
2. Cats in Multi-Cat Environments: Shelters, catteries, and homes with multiple cats are high-risk settings where FCoV can spread easily through fecal contamination.
3. Stress Factors: Cats experiencing stress from changes in their environment, illness, or poor nutrition may have a higher risk of developing FIP.

FCoV spreads through contact with feces, contaminated litter boxes, and shared food or water bowls. Once FCoV mutates into FIP, it is no longer contagious.

Symptoms of FIP in Cats

FIP manifests in two forms: wet (effusive) and dry (non-effusive). The symptoms vary depending on the form and the organs affected.

Wet FIP Symptoms

Wet FIP is characterized by the accumulation of fluid in body cavities, leading to:

• Abdominal Distension: A swollen belly due to fluid buildup.
• Respiratory Issues: Difficulty breathing from fluid around the lungs.
• Lethargy: Cats may appear extremely tired and inactive.
• Weight Loss: Sudden or gradual weight loss despite normal appetite.
• Fever: Persistent fever unresponsive to antibiotics.

Dry FIP Symptoms

Dry FIP does not involve fluid accumulation but affects specific organs, causing:

• Neurological Signs: Seizures, tremors, or difficulty walking.
• Eye Abnormalities: Inflammation in the eyes, such as uveitis or retinal detachment.
• Gastrointestinal Issues: Vomiting or diarrhea.
• Jaundice: Yellowing of the gums, eyes, or skin.
• Behavioral Changes: Increased aggression, confusion, or depression.

FIP in Cats Eye Symptoms

Ocular signs are more common in dry FIP and may include:

• Redness: Swelling and redness in the eyes.
• Discharge: Watery or pus-like discharge from the eyes.
• Cloudy Eyes: A cloudy or bluish appearance in the cornea.
• Dilated Pupils: Irregular or non-reactive pupils.

Final Stages of FIP in Cats

As FIP progresses, symptoms become more severe, regardless of the form:

• Severe Weakness: Cats may struggle to stand or move.
• Appetite Loss: Complete refusal to eat or drink.
• Breathing Difficulties: Severe respiratory distress in wet FIP.
• Neurological Collapse: Inability to control bodily movements.
• Organ Failure: Kidney, liver, or other organ dysfunction.

Without treatment, FIP often leads to death within weeks or months of symptom onset.

Is FIP Contagious to Other Cats?

FIP itself is not contagious. However, the feline coronavirus that mutates into FIP can spread among cats through:

• Direct Contact: Grooming or close interaction.
• Shared Spaces: Contaminated litter boxes, bedding, and bowls.

Cats that recover from FCoV may continue shedding the virus, posing a risk to others in multi-cat households. Proper hygiene and isolation of infected cats can reduce transmission risks.

Treatment for FIP in Cats

FIP was once considered a death sentence, but advancements in veterinary medicine have introduced potential treatments:

1. Antiviral Medications: GS-441524, a nucleoside analog, has shown promise in treating FIP by inhibiting viral replication. It’s not yet FDA-approved but has been widely used under veterinary supervision.
2. Steroids: To manage inflammation and reduce symptoms.
3. Supportive Care: Fluid therapy, nutritional support, and pain relief.
4. Experimental Treatments: Some cats respond to newer immunomodulatory drugs, but their availability and success vary.

Early diagnosis and treatment significantly improve survival chances.

How to Prevent FIP

While there is no guaranteed way to prevent FIP, these measures can reduce the risk:

1. Hygiene: Regularly clean litter boxes, food bowls, and living spaces.
2. Limit Stress: Provide a stable, low-stress environment.
3. Vaccination: Though a vaccine exists for FCoV, its efficacy in preventing FIP is controversial.
4. Quarantine New Cats: Isolate new arrivals for at least two weeks to monitor for symptoms.
5. Avoid Overcrowding: Maintain a manageable number of cats to reduce stress and disease spread.

Conclusion

FIP is a complex and heartbreaking disease, but understanding its symptoms, transmission, and prevention can help cat owners take proactive steps. Early recognition of wet and dry FIP symptoms, along with advancements in treatment, offers hope for affected cats. Ensuring a clean, stress-free environment and seeking veterinary care at the first sign of illness are crucial for keeping your feline companions healthy and happy.

For more insights on pet health and safety, explore our Pet Health & Safety category on Pawsoothe.