FIP (Feline Coronavirus) in Cats
Feline coronavirus
Coronaviruses occur in many different forms in both humans and animals. In humans, we mainly associate coronaviruses with respiratory infections, while in dogs and cats they primarily cause gastrointestinal symptoms. It is important to understand that not all coronaviruses are the same. The same applies to humans: some coronaviruses cause nothing more than a common cold, while others, such as SARS, MERS and the now well-known COVID-19 virus, can cause more serious illness.
In cats, feline coronavirus (FCoV) can cause gastrointestinal symptoms. At least a quarter of domestic cats in the Netherlands are exposed to FCoV at some point in their lives. The virus is even more common in places where large numbers of cats live together, such as shelters and breeding catteries. It is unusual for cats living in these environments to never be exposed to the virus.
In the vast majority of cats, FCoV infection causes no symptoms or only mild symptoms, such as temporary diarrhoea. The virus replicates in the gastrointestinal tract and is shed in the faeces. When we perform more extensive faecal testing on a cat with diarrhoea, we also routinely test for feline coronavirus. So, if we call you to say that coronavirus has been detected in your cat, it is a completely different virus from the coronaviruses we commonly associate with humans.
Feline infectious peritonitis (FIP)
Feline coronavirus is usually relatively harmless, but unfortunately, this is not always the case. For reasons that are not yet fully understood, the otherwise harmless virus can mutate in some cats and develop into a much more dangerous form. This can lead to feline infectious peritonitis (FIP).
When this happens, the outcome depends on how effectively the cat’s immune system responds. In some cats, the immune system is able to suppress the mutated virus and the cat does not become ill. In others, the immune response is not strong enough, and the cat develops FIP. In many cases, the disease is fatal.
Around 1–5% of cats infected with feline coronavirus eventually develop FIP. Approximately 90% of cats diagnosed with FIP are younger than one year, while the remaining 10% are often older than 10 years. FIP is also more commonly seen in households or environments where more than five cats live together.
The mutated form of feline coronavirus that causes FIP is not itself transmitted directly from one cat to another.
What are the symptoms of FIP?
FIP can cause a wide range of symptoms, depending on how the disease affects the cat. It often starts with non-specific signs such as lethargy, reduced appetite and fever. As the disease progresses, cats with FIP can generally be divided into two forms: wet (effusive) FIP and dry (non-effusive) FIP.
Cats with wet FIP
With wet FIP, fluid builds up in the body cavities. This can cause the cat to have difficulty breathing or develop a swollen abdomen. We can collect a sample of this fluid from the abdomen using a needle and syringe for further examination. Clear, yellow, stringy (sticky) fluid is highly characteristic of FIP.
Wet FIP typically progresses rapidly and severely and is usually fatal within a few weeks.
Cats with dry FIP
The signs of dry FIP are less specific. Inflammation can develop throughout the body, for example in the brain, eyes, liver, kidneys or lymph nodes. Depending on where the inflammation occurs, cats can develop a wide range of symptoms, including neurological problems, impaired vision or liver problems.
Dry FIP often progresses more slowly than wet FIP. However, it may eventually develop into the wet form and is usually fatal within a few months.
What is the treatment for FIP?
FIP was traditionally considered a fatal disease, as there was no effective treatment available. However, new antiviral treatments have changed the outlook for cats with FIP.
One of the most promising treatments is the antiviral drug GS-441524. This treatment can significantly improve the chances of recovery, and most cats respond well to it. Treatment is currently available in the Netherlands through specialised veterinary centres as part of ongoing research and treatment programmes.
The treatment is generally well tolerated by cats, although side effects can occur. In some cases, supportive care may also be needed, such as medication to reduce inflammation, pain relief, nutritional support or hospitalisation if the cat is severely ill.
If your cat is diagnosed with FIP, your veterinarian can discuss the available treatment options with you and advise you on the most appropriate approach.
How can you reduce the risk of FIP in cats?
Unfortunately, FIP cannot always be prevented. However, reducing the risk of infection with feline coronavirus (FCoV) may also help reduce the risk of FIP developing.
Good hygiene is important. Feline coronavirus is mainly spread through faeces, so keeping litter trays and the cat’s living environment clean can help reduce the risk of infection. In households with multiple cats, it is also important to keep the level of infection as low as possible.
Reducing stress is also important for your cat’s health and immune system. Make sure your cat has enough space, quiet places to rest and hide, and separate food, water and litter areas where possible. This can help minimise stress and tension between cats.
Do you have questions about feline coronavirus or FIP in your cat? Please feel free to contact us or make an appointment.
Is your cat vaccinated?
Vaccinations are an important part of keeping your cat healthy. Your veterinarian can advise you on the vaccinations your cat needs and create a vaccination schedule tailored to your cat’s individual situation.
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