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| what is fip that cats get |
Overview of FIP
Feline infection peritonitis is caused by the Corona virus,
which is Fatal disease In most cases, Corona virus causes some mild symptoms in
cats, such as respiratory infections or gastroenteritis, which can be treated.
The coronavirus may mutate into a
more virulent form in rare cases and is able to weaken the cat's immune system,
as it spreads through white blood cells throughout the body, often resulting in
death. The most susceptible to FIP are cats less than 3 years old, but their
risks Decrease while enhancing immune systems and their maturity.
Little cats and Cats with weakened immune
systems, such as cats infected with HIV or leukemia, are also at risk, cats in
multi-cat families and batteries are at greater risk.
Not all cats exposed to FIP will
develop the disease, specialists believe that FIP spreads through feces, the
virus can remain active for a long time, until surfaces are completely cleared. Read also: How to know if your cat is overweight or obese.
Types of FIP disease
There are two types of FIP disease
the first is an acute form, known as the "wet" FIP, the second is a
chronic form, known as the "dry" FIP.
The acute form appears suddenly,
and its most common sign is the accumulation of fluid in the chest and abdomen
cavity, which sometimes causes swelling in the abdomen or difficulty breathing.
There is no accumulation of fluid
with a chronic or "dry" form, instead lesions develop on the organs,
leading to neurological symptoms such as paralysis or seizures, kidney and
liver problems may also occur, you will notice weight loss most of the time,
and the cat will appear depressed. Most cats that become infected get the first
type "acute form of FIP"
Diagnosis and treatment
FIP is often
difficult to diagnose. It is possible to know if your cat has been exposed to
cat coronavirus through blood tests, but except for PCR, it is not specific to
FIP, your vet will examine your cat and the following tests may be recommended:
- A microscopic examination of the fluid extracted from the chest / abdomen.
- Abdominal/chest x-rays to determine if there is fluid buildup in the chest/abdomen.
- Chemistry tests to evaluate liver,kidney, pancreatic function and sugar levels.
- Electrolyte tests to ensure that your cat does not have an electrical defect or is dehydrated.
- A complete blood count (CBC) to rule out a blood-related conditions.
- Cardiac tests to rule out heart-related issues.
- A feline leukemia virus (FeLV) test.
- A feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) test.
- A Feline Coronavirus titer test to determine the presence of corona virus antibodies.
- FIP Virus PCR test to confirm virus availability and to see if coronavirus carries mutations associated with FIP or not.
Treatment method
There is no
treatment for FIP, treatment is limited to supportive care based on symptoms,
treatment may include giving antibiotics to treat secondary infections and
giving fluids to treat dehydration, the use of anti-inflammatory drugs called
glucocorticosteroids, procedures to remove excess fluid from the abdomen and
chest, and nutritional support, the veterinarian may suggest Additional
treatment depending on your cat's condition. Read also: How to take care of your old cat.
Precaution
The best way to
protect your cat from this often fatal disease is to keep its living area, food
and water bowls, and litter box clean. Keeping your cat strictly indoors can
reduce your risk of exposure to unfamiliar and potentially infected cats. If
you have any questions or concerns, you should always visit or call your
veterinarian: they are the best resource for your pet's health. For more details and information about FIP in cats, click here.