What is FIP?

Feline infectious peritonitis (FIP) is a disease caused by a feline coronavirus (FCoV). Feline coronavirus itself is very common, especially where many cats live together, and most infected cats show mild or no signs.

In a small proportion of infected cats, the virus changes within the cat's body and the cat's immune response to it leads to FIP. It most often affects young cats, but it can occur at any age.

Common forms

• “Wet” (effusive) FIP: fluid builds up in the abdomen or chest.
• “Dry” (non-effusive) FIP: inflammation affects organs such as the kidneys, liver, lymph nodes, eyes or nervous system.
• Many cats show features of both, and the form can change over time.

Signs owners may notice

• Persistent fever that doesn't respond to antibiotics
• Reduced appetite, weight loss, lethargy
• A swollen abdomen or difficulty breathing
• Yellowish gums or eyes (jaundice)
• Changes in the eyes, wobbliness, or changes in behaviour

These signs can have many causes. Only a veterinarian can investigate and diagnose them.

Is it contagious?

The coronavirus is spread mainly through faeces and shared litter trays, but the FIP-causing form is not thought to spread readily between cats. Ask your veterinarian about hygiene and other cats in your home.