As a non-veterinarian, I can only run down what I’ve learned about FIP since my cat was diagnosed with it. Lower on this page you’ll find links to comprehensive articles from authoritative sources. All of my reading indicates a better than 80% chance of remission or cure, depending on the cat and its condition. It’s important to start treatment early! — Theron Burrough
FIP (Feline Infectious Peritonitis) is a generally terminal disease of cats, only recently made treatable with new antiviral drugs. The cost of treating FIP has come down from $3,000+ with price reductions, charitable sources of medication, and new medications. Most of the medications can show results in days. It’s important to start as early as possible.
FIP Symptoms
FIP in cats can show up in two main forms: “wet” (effusive) and “dry” (non-effusive). Early symptoms for both may include:
- Loss of appetite
- Weight loss or failure to gain weight
- Lethargy or depression
- Fever that doesn’t respond to antibiotics
Wet FIP Symptoms
- Accumulation of fluid in the abdomen (pot-bellied appearance) or chest (breathing difficulty)
- Rapid progression
Dry FIP Symptoms
- Neurological signs (seizures, incoordination)
- Eye changes (inflammation, cloudiness)
- Signs depend on which organs are affected
“Cats infected with FIPV usually first develop nonspecific signs of disease such as loss of appetite, weight loss, depression, and fever. The signs of the effusive form of FIP… include the accumulation of fluid in body cavities… affected cats may develop a pot-bellied appearance… if excessive, it may become difficult for a cat to breathe normally.”
Cornell Feline Health Center: Feline Infectious Peritonitis
FIP Causes And Risk Factors
FIP comes from a mutation in a very common virus (feline coronavirus) that many cats carry without illness. It’s not the same as COVID-19. Only some cats’ immune systems respond in a way that allows FIP to develop.
At Risk
- Young cats or kittens
- Cats from shelters or catteries
- Cats exposed to chronic stress or overcrowded environments
More on Causes – International Cat Care
“FIP develops when a usually benign coronavirus mutates within an individual cat… and the cat’s immune response plays a key role in disease progression.”
What Should I Do If My Cat Exhibits FIP Symptoms?
Find a veterinarian who is familiar with FIP or will become so. FIP symptoms can have serious consequences beyond FIP itself. For example, not eating can quickly cause liver problems. You should begin monitoring your cat’s breathing, energy, coordination, eating, excreting and behavior, plus everything else your vet specifies.
Order blood tests at a minimum. Basic blood work examined in light of symptoms may indicate FIP, or your vet may decide further tests are needed.
How Is FIP Treated?
To prepare to treat FIP, you should find out the latest on FIP medications and where to get them at a price you can afford.