FIP – When Every Minute Counts
(Feline Infectious Peritonitis – Information and Help)
Feline Infectious Peritonitis (FIP) is a deadly viral disease in cats caused by the feline coronavirus (FCoV). Thanks to new treatment options, there is now hope for affected cats.
Important Facts About FIP:
Cause: Mutation of the feline coronavirus (FCoV)
Prevalence: Up to 90% of the cat population carries it. In most cases, it remains harmless, but under certain conditions—with stress being the main trigger—it can mutate and cause FIP. This is why it is crucial to minimize stress.
Symptoms: Fever, loss of appetite, lethargy, weight loss, fluid accumulation in the abdomen or chest (wet form), neurological symptoms (dry form)
Diagnosis: Blood tests, ultrasound, clinical symptoms
Treatment: Antiviral medications (GS-441524) have successfully cured many cats
Important Links and Support:
Facebook Groups for FIP – in your Country
There, you can find up-to-date information , personal experiences, and support from others affected. plz search for a Group in Your Country
What to Do If Your Cat Has FIP?
1. Consult a veterinarian to confirm the diagnosis
2. Gather information about treatment options (e.g., in the Facebook group)
3. Act quickly – early therapy increases the chances of recovery
How Can I Reduce Stress When Bringing a New Cat Home?
Moving to a new home or adjusting to a new environment can be very stressful for cats. To minimize stress, the cat should initially have a quiet retreat where it feels safe. This can be a separate room with food, water, a clean litter box, and a familiar blanket.
Slow Introduction: The cat should explore the new environment at its own pace.
Consistent Routine: Regular feeding times and a stable daily routine provide security.
Limiting Visitor Contact: In the first few weeks, visitor interactions should be minimized. Even though everyone may be eager to meet the new kitten, it is important that the cat first interacts only with family members and any existing cats or other pets. Too many new experiences at once can be overwhelming and stressful.
Staying in the Familiar Environment: The cat should not be removed from its familiar surroundings. Walks, trips, or visits to other people or pets can cause extreme stress and should be avoided during the adjustment period. Even later, such changes can trigger FIP. FIP can also develop in older cats. It is particularly advisable to leave the cat at home during vacations instead of taking it along. Traveling with a cat can be risky as the unfamiliar environment and journey can cause significant stress, increasing the risk of FCoV mutation.
Maintaining Hygiene: Visitors should follow hygiene practices. In a cat household, it is always beneficial to leave shoes outside and sanitize hands to reduce the risk of bringing in harmful germs.
Preventing FIP Mutation with a Healthy Diet and Strong Immune System
A strong immune system can help reduce the risk of FIP mutation. A healthy, species-appropriate diet plays a crucial role. High-quality food should be grain-free, sugar-free, and have a high meat content to support the cat's natural dietary needs. Additionally, L-lysine (Elysin) can help strengthen the immune system and reduce viral stress. A balanced, nutrient-rich diet and a stress-free environment are essential for the cat’s health and resilience.
A stress-free start and good nutrition can help lower the risk of FCoV mutation and thus a potential FIP mutation.
Disclaimer
This information sheet was created using various text sources. It is not exhaustive and serves as general information. There are additional causes of FIP that are not all covered here. For more information, you can contact a Facebook group or your veterinarian. Further information can be found online or in specialized literature.