How does FIP manifest in cats? - briefly
Feline infectious peritonitis (FIP) is a fatal viral disease that primarily affects domestic cats and is caused by a coronavirus. In its wet form, FIP manifests as abdominal distension due to fluid accumulation in the body cavities, while in the dry form, it presents with systemic inflammation leading to neurological symptoms or granulomas in various organs.
How does FIP manifest in cats? - in detail
Feline infectious peritonitis (FIP) is a severe and often fatal disease caused by a mutated strain of feline coronavirus (FeCoV). In cats, FIP typically manifests as either a wet or dry form, with distinct symptoms and clinical presentations.
The wet form of FIP is characterized by the accumulation of fluid in body cavities, particularly the abdomen and chest. This can lead to a distended abdomen, difficulty breathing due to pleural effusion, and lethargy. The fluid buildup is often visible as a swollen belly or bulging flanks. In some cases, the wet form may also present with visible lesions on the skin or eyes, such as pyogranulomatous lesions.
The dry form of FIP, also known as non-effusive FIP, does not involve fluid accumulation but instead affects various organs and tissues throughout the body. Common symptoms include fever, weight loss, lethargy, anorexia, and neurological signs such as seizures or abnormal gait. Inflammation of the eyes (uveitis) is also a common manifestation of dry FIP, which can lead to cloudy corneas and other ocular issues. Additionally, affected cats may exhibit lymphadenopathy, enlarged lymph nodes, and granulomatous lesions in various organs, including the liver, kidneys, and lungs.
Diagnosing FIP can be challenging due to the variable nature of its manifestations. Laboratory tests, such as serology or polymerase chain reaction (PCR), are often used to detect the presence of FeCoV. However, these tests alone cannot definitively diagnose FIP, as many cats carry the virus without developing clinical disease. A combination of clinical signs, laboratory findings, and imaging techniques, such as ultrasound or radiography, is typically required for a comprehensive diagnosis.
In conclusion, FIP in cats manifests through two primary forms: wet (effusive) and dry (non-effusive). The wet form is characterized by fluid accumulation in body cavities, while the dry form presents with systemic inflammation, organ involvement, and neurological signs. Early recognition of these symptoms is crucial for timely intervention and improved prognosis.