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Feline Infectious Peritonitis Feline infectious peritonitis (FIP) is a progressive, immune-mediated viral disease that is, with few exceptions, fatal within a few weeks. The virus is relatively unstable in the environment but may remain infectious for as long as 7 weeks within dried organic matter or on dry surfaces. It is susceptible to most commonly used veterinary disinfectants. The virus is transmitted via saliva and nasal secretions; prolonged contact with an infected cat is usually required for transmission. The incidence of virus-infected cats in a closed population is typically found to be either zero or 80 to 90%. The outcome of an infection may not be known for months or years, as the virus may remain dormant. The outcome is influenced by the cat's immune response. Antibodies produced against the virus may promote the disease rather than cause immunity. The wet or effusive form results in lesions within single or multiple organs and the build up of effusive fluid within the chest or abdominal cavity. The dry or non-effusive form causes the same organ lesions, but no fluid build up. The most commonly affected organs are the kidneys, liver, lymph nodes, intestines, lungs, eyes, and brain. The clinical signs are referable to the affected organ or organs, but all cases generally include weight loss, inappetance, and fever. Jaundice and pale mucous membranes are common. Abdominal distention or breathing difficulties occur when abdominal or pleural effusions develop The clinical signs are not unlike many infectious or inflammatory diseases; however, the presence of persistent fever should raise suspicion for FIP. Diagnosis is complicated and may involve biopsy of lesions, blood sampling, and sampling any abnormal fluid build up Dry FIP is one of the most difficult diagnoses to make. It should be considered for any cat with chronic weight loss, poor appetite, and fever. Many cats with FIP are also infected with the FeLV. The prognosis for cats with FIP is grave. No effective antiviral treatment is available |
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