Coronavirus infection in cats was first diagnosed in Nepal in the 1940s and was defined as "an important disease of cats" in 1963. In 1971, this disease, which was defined as a "virus-like particle" in microscopic environments, was proven in 1972 to have two different forms, dry and wet.
Although 90% of cats develop antibodies to Coronavirus, 5% to 10% of those infected with this virus have developed FIP. Coronavirus infection, which is common worldwide, has a risk of affecting cats of all ages.
What is FIP Disease?
Feline Infectious Peritonitis (FIP) is a viral infectious disease that can be seen in all cat breeds. FIP disease is caused by mutating Feline Coronavirus and directly affects the immune system of cats. This virus is different from the human coronavirus called Covid-19. Feline Coronavirus usually does not show any clear symptoms other than diarrhea. It has been observed that the viruses multiply, mutate, and turn into FIP in approximately 10% of cats infected with enteric coronavirus. This disease, cats; It can cause advanced infection in regions such as kidney, brain, chest and abdominal cavity. FIP can be life-threatening in infected cats. The most important factor in the formation of FIP disease; It is the interaction between the cat's immune system and the virus in its body. After a cat is diagnosed with FIP, it is very important to take precautions early to avoid a progressive effect.
What Are the Symptoms of FIP Disease?
FIP disease can show different symptoms in cats depending on the function of the organ affected by the infection. Common symptoms of FIP include:
- Weakness
- Not enought feeding
- Fever
- Drowsiness
- Ongoing weight loss
- Eye problems (watery eyes, decreased vision, color change in the eye)
- Difficulty in breathing
- Nasal congestion
- Balance and walking problems
- Swelling due to fluid accumulation in the thoracic and abdominal cavities
FIP is difficult to diagnose by clinical signs, as the symptoms associated with FIP disease are variable. Symptoms similar to those of FIP in cats can also be a sign of different diseases.
What Are the Types of FIP?
FIP disease can be seen in cats in "dry" and "wet" forms. Cats infected with this disease may have symptoms of only one variety or both.
Wet FIP: Causes fluid to accumulate in the thoracic and abdominal cavities of cats. This can also cause a bloated appearance. Fluid buildup can also occur in the chest cavity and can make it difficult for cats to breathe over time. Wet FIP can cause damage to blood vessels. This, in turn, can cause inflammation and fluid flow from the blood to the abdomen and chest areas. FIP symptoms may tend to get worse.
Dry FIP: It can cause inflammatory lesions and infection around the vessels. Dry FIP can restrict cats' normal mobility and cause them to have seizures. Organs commonly affected by this infection include:
- Liver
- Brain
- Lung
- Skin
- Kidney
- Eyelash
In some cases, dry FIP symptoms may include intermittent fever, vomiting, weight loss, excessive thirst, excessive urination, and jaundice.
How is FIP Diagnosed in Cats?
Due to the fact that a special test that can diagnose the disease has not been developed yet and that similar symptoms are likely to be the precursors of many different diseases; Diagnosis of FIP disease is very difficult. The disease can be diagnosed with detailed examinations and tests under the control of a veterinarian. The process followed by the physician's guidance to reach the diagnosis of the disease is as follows:
- Physical examination: Symptoms such as weight loss, fever, diarrhea, eye infection, shortness of breath, and imbalance are checked.
- Medical history: Information such as the cat's previous medical condition, past illnesses, and vaccinations are evaluated.
- Blood test: The protein level in the blood, albumin/globulin ratios and other blood parameters are examined. Cats with FIP have high globulin levels and low albumin levels.
- Antibody test: Antibodies produced in the blood are detected to combat FIP.
- Fluid analysis: Fluid samples are taken from different parts of the body and examined, and evidence of the presence of FIP is sought.
- Imaging: X-ray, ultrasound or advanced imaging methods can be used when FIP is suspected.
In order to confirm the diagnosis, white blood cells can be examined by applying the immunoperoxidase test.
How Is FIP Treated in Cats?
Although FIP has been known as an incurable disease for many years, there are antiviral drugs that have been reported to have positive results in the treatment of the disease with scientific studies, but are still under development.
Supportive care in the treatment of FIP disease may include methods such as drainage of accumulated fluid and blood transfusion. Consulted veterinarians determine the most appropriate treatment method in accordance with the symptoms of the disease and considering the general health status of the cat.
Is FIP Disease Transmitted from Cat to Human?
FIP is not a disease that can be transmitted from cats to humans. However, attention should be paid to disinfection after contact with a diseased creature in order not to pose a risk for the carrier of the Coronavirus among cats.
Is FIP Disease Transmitted from Cat to Cat?
The ease of transmission of the Coronavirus, which causes FIP, causes the virus to spread rapidly among cats. Coronavirus is contagious, but the disease occurs when the virus mutates, especially in situations such as immunodeficiency, stress, various diseases.
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