What is it?
FIP is a virus from the coronavirus
family. There are many types of corona
viruses, only one is responsible for causing the disease FIP.
How is it transmitted?
The primary source of virus is feces,
but can also be shed in oral and respiratory secretions. The virus is fragile, good sanitation should
keep it from being in the environment.
Cleaning litter boxes is essential.
Who is at risk?
Young cats, cats in multicat households
or shelters, cats in crowded environments
Do all cats that are exposed die from
the disease?
No.
If cats are exposed to large doses of the virus, if they have an
immature or incompetent immune system or if they are under other stress, their
risk is higher, (resp.disease, surgery, shelter, new home...)
What steps can be taken to prevent FIP?
1. reduce fecal contamination
2. reduce cat numbers
3. antibody testing
4. isolation of new cats
If a cat has antibodies to FIP, does
that mean it’s going to die?
No.
Having antibodies simply means that the cat has been exposed to the
corona family of viruses and the immune system has responded. A positive antibody test in an asymptomatic
cat does not warrant euthanasia.
However, cats with clinical disease have
a poor prognosis.
What is the treatment for FIP?
There is no definitive treatment. Cats
that are clinically affected will not survive long-term despite supportive
care.