What are the symptoms of coronavirus in cats? - briefly
Cats infected with coronavirus may exhibit mild respiratory symptoms such as sneezing, nasal discharge, or fever, while severe cases can lead to feline infectious peritonitis (FIP), causing lethargy, weight loss, and abdominal swelling.
What are the symptoms of coronavirus in cats? - in detail
Coronavirus in cats, specifically feline coronavirus (FCoV), can manifest in various ways, depending on the strain and the cat’s immune response. The most common form of FCoV is the mild, enteric strain, which primarily affects the gastrointestinal tract. Cats infected with this strain may exhibit symptoms such as mild diarrhea, occasional vomiting, and a temporary loss of appetite. These symptoms are often self-limiting and resolve without significant intervention. However, in some cases, the virus can mutate into a more severe form known as feline infectious peritonitis (FIP), which is a systemic and often fatal disease. Cats with FIP may display a range of symptoms, including persistent fever that does not respond to antibiotics, lethargy, weight loss, and a distended abdomen due to fluid accumulation. Additionally, they may experience respiratory difficulties, jaundice, and neurological symptoms such as seizures or uncoordinated movements if the disease affects the central nervous system. The wet form of FIP is characterized by fluid buildup in the chest or abdominal cavities, while the dry form involves granulomatous lesions in various organs. Early detection and differentiation between the mild enteric form and FIP are crucial, as FIP requires aggressive treatment, though it remains challenging to manage effectively. Monitoring for changes in behavior, appetite, and overall health is essential for identifying potential coronavirus-related issues in cats.