Feline Infectious Peritonitis (FIP) is a cat’s disease caused by the feline coronavirus (FCoV) mutation. FCoV is a common virus in cats, typically causing mild gastrointestinal symptoms. However, the virus mutates in some cases, allowing it to spread beyond the intestines and infect immune cells, leading to FIP. This mutated form of the virus causes systemic inflammation and can be fatal.
- Mutation and Pathogenesis: FIP develops when FCoV undergoes genetic mutations, enabling it to infect immune cells (monocytes/macrophages) and spread throughout the body. This mutation is not consistent across all cases, and factors like viral genetics, host immunity, and environmental stress play a role in its development.
- Forms of FIP: FIP manifests in two forms:
- Wet (Effusive) FIP: characterized by fluid accumulation in the abdomen or chest, accounting for about 80% of cases. Symptoms: difficulty breathing, distended belly, lethargy, fever.
- Dry (Non-Effusive) FIP: Involves organ inflammation without fluid buildup, often leading to neurological or ocular symptoms.
- Diagnosis: Diagnosing FIP is challenging due to its varied symptoms. Tests include measuring FCoV antibodies, PCR for viral genetic material, and imaging (e.g., X-rays, ultrasound). A low albumin-to-globulin ratio in blood tests can also indicate FIP.
- Treatment: There is no FDA-approved treatment for FIP in the United States. However, antiviral drugs like GS-441524 (related to remdesivir) have shown promise in clinical trials. Supportive care, such as fluids and immune-suppressing medications, may also help manage symptoms.
- Prognosis: Without treatment, FIP is almost always fatal, with up to 95% of affected cats dying. Early intervention with experimental treatments can improve survival rates and quality of life1.
- Prevention: Reducing stress, maintaining hygiene (especially in multi-cat households), and minimizing the number of cats in an environment can help lower the risk of FCoV transmission and subsequent FIP development
