Feline Infectious Peritonitis (FIP) in Cats: An Examination by Joanna Woodnutt, MRCVS, Reviewed by Rhiannon Koehler, DVM, MPH, Last Updated on November 4, 2024. Shared on Facebook, Twitter, Email, and Print.

Feline Infectious Peritonitis (FIP) is a viral disease that affects cats and kittens worldwide. This disease is caused by a mutated form of the common feline coronavirus, and it's important to note that about 90% of cats pick up feline coronavirus at some point in their lives, but less than 1% develop FIP.

FIP presents two distinct syndromes: wet and dry. Symptoms of dry FIP include lethargy, weight loss, wobbliness, breathing problems, and sometimes normal appetite and energy levels. On the other hand, wet FIP causes fluid build-up in the abdomen, chest, lungs, and heart, leading to abdominal swelling, breathing difficulties, fever, weight loss, lethargy, vomiting, diarrhea, jaundice, eye problems, incoordination, and seizures.

Cats with an immature or incapable immune system, cats under the age of two, those with concurrent illnesses, stressed cats, intact male cats, and some breeds (Abyssinians, Bengals, Birmans, Himalayans, Ragdolls, Rexes) are more likely to develop FIP.

Diagnosing FIP is challenging, and it relies on collecting evidence using several different tests to rule out other diseases with similar symptoms. Blood tests can reveal changes typical of FIP, such as a high white blood cell count, anemia, or changes in albumin and globulin levels. Sampling fluid in the abdomen or chest can help diagnose FIP, and ultrasounds may be used when there isn't much fluid. However, it's essential to note that a negative test result doesn't necessarily rule out the disease.

Prevention of FIP usually involves preventing immune-compromising disease and reducing the spread of coronavirus. Keeping cats in small, stable groups and ensuring regular disinfection of litter boxes can help reduce the spread of FIP.

In a significant development, the compounded antiviral drug Bova GS-441524 has become the first regulated treatment for FIP in cats. This treatment, now available in tuna-flavoured oral formulations, was officially regulated around 2025, following multiple studies that proved its effectiveness. The compounded antiviral drug Bova GS-441524 is now the preferred first-line treatment for cats with FIP, and it's recommended that affected cats take the medication for a full 12 weeks for the best chance of recovery.

It's crucial to remember that while there is now a treatment for FIP, the costs of diagnosing and treating the disease can be high, potentially reaching $1,000 per day for extended hospital stays. Furthermore, waiting at least two months before getting another pet if a cat has FIP, as the virus can live for up to seven weeks in the environment.

In conclusion, while FIP remains a challenging disease to diagnose and treat, the development of Bova GS-441524 as a regulated treatment offers hope for cats and their owners. Regular veterinary check-ups, preventative measures, and responsible pet ownership remain crucial in managing the spread of FIP and other diseases.

Feline Infectious Peritonitis (FIP) in Cats: An Examination by Joanna Woodnutt, MRCVS, Reviewed by Rhiannon Koehler, DVM, MPH, Last Updated on November 4, 2024. Shared on Facebook, Twitter, Email, and Print.