How is the FIP virus transmitted from cat to cat?
In 5-10% of those cats, the virus goes thru a sequence of mutations that essentially tricks the white blood cells into spreading the virus rather than fighting it. The benign FCoV is highly contagious and is spread among cats via feces to oral route, and it is currently believed that a mother cat can transmit FCoV to her babies via the placenta.
Is it possible for a healthy cat to get FIP?
As explained above, most infections are with relatively harmless strains of feline coronavirus. Unfortunately, this initial benign infection may later mutate to cause FIP in some cats. Even with the more harmful strains, apparently healthy cats may be carriers of the virus, and may shed the virus without ever showing signs of disease.
How long does it take for FIP to kill an adult cat?
Although FIP may commonly strike an entire litter of kittens, my experience tells me unrelated adult cats rarely pass the fatal form of the virus between each other. The healthy cat will likely have blood tests indicating exposure to coronavirus for the 3-6 months after the death of the sick cat.
What are the symptoms of wet FIP in cats?
With wet FIP, classic markers are typically present, which include high white blood cells, high TBIL, high neutrophils, high protein, low red blood cells (non-regenerative anemia), low albumen, and high globulin. Typically a fluid sample is drawn and may be observed for color and texture, or may be sent out for a PCR.
Is it common for cats to get FIP?
Infection in this way is really common, with about 40% of household cats becoming infected at some point in their lives. For cats living in the same home as other cats, infection is even more common with about 60% being infected. In cat colonies, infection rates are pretty much 100%.
How often does Feline enteric coronavirus ( FIP ) occur?
The majority of cats with feline enteric coronavirus (about 90% or more) remain healthy. The incidence of feline infectious peritonitis disease is low (only 5 to 10% of infected cats and less than 1% of cats admitted to veterinary hospitals). Are certain cat breeds more susceptible to FIP? Certain breeds of cats may be more likely to develop FIP.
What are symptoms of feline infectious peritonitis ( FIP )?
Caused by a lethal strain of feline coronavirus, FIP kills 95% of cats diagnosed with it. FIP comes in a ‘dry’ form with symptoms of weight loss, lethargy, and fever, and a ‘wet’ form which comes with the same symptoms plus fluid retention in the lungs and/or stomach.
Although FIP may commonly strike an entire litter of kittens, my experience tells me unrelated adult cats rarely pass the fatal form of the virus between each other. The healthy cat will likely have blood tests indicating exposure to coronavirus for the 3-6 months after the death of the sick cat.