How does Feline Infectious Peritonitis start in cats? - briefly
Feline Infectious Peritonitis begins when a benign feline coronavirus mutates into a pathogenic form, triggering an abnormal immune response that leads to severe inflammation and organ damage.
How does Feline Infectious Peritonitis start in cats? - in detail
Feline Infectious Peritonitis (FIP) originates from a mutation of the feline coronavirus (FCoV), a common virus that typically causes mild gastrointestinal symptoms in cats. Most cats infected with FCoV remain asymptomatic or experience only transient diarrhea, as the virus replicates in the intestinal epithelium. However, in certain cases, the virus undergoes a genetic mutation within the host, transforming into a pathogenic strain capable of causing FIP. This mutated virus gains the ability to infect macrophages, a type of white blood cell, and spread systemically throughout the body. The immune system’s response to the mutated virus triggers an inflammatory cascade, leading to the development of FIP. The disease manifests in two primary forms: effusive (wet) FIP, characterized by fluid accumulation in body cavities, and non-effusive (dry) FIP, marked by granulomatous lesions in organs. Factors such as genetic predisposition, age, stress, and immune status influence the likelihood of FCoV mutating and progressing to FIP. Kittens and young cats, as well as those in multi-cat environments, are at higher risk due to increased viral exposure and immune system immaturity. Once the mutation occurs and the virus infiltrates macrophages, it evades immune detection and replicates uncontrollably, leading to the systemic and often fatal manifestations of FIP. Understanding the mechanisms of FCoV mutation and the immune response is critical for identifying potential interventions and managing this complex disease.