Is it More Likely for Indoor Cats to Get FIP? Understanding the Risks

Whether a cat goes outdoors or not does not directly correlate with the likelihood of contracting Feline Infectious Peritonitis (FIP). Generally, the probability of a cat developing FIP in a single-cat household ranges from 12% to 16%. This percentage increases dramatically in multi-cat environments, where the incidence rate can fluctuate between 24% and 87%. Early detection and prompt treatment are vital if a cat exhibits any signs of FIP.

The development of FIP is not intrinsically linked to whether a cat spends time outdoors. The primary cause of FIP is a mutation of the feline coronavirus (FCoV) inside the cat’s body. Some cats may carry FCoV their entire lives, and if the virus does not mutate, they will not develop FIP. However, if forcing a cat outdoors causes undue stress and a weakened immune system, it can trigger an increase of the resident coronavirus, potentially leading to mutation and the onset of FIP. The stress and subsequent immunosuppression that may result from an unfamiliar or frightening outdoor experience, can therefore indirectly contribute to the development of FIP in susceptible cats.

The infection rate of feline enteric coronavirus (FECV) is approximately 12%-16% in single-cat households, and 24%-87% in multi-cat households. Most of the time, cats either show no symptoms or mild gastrointestinal signs, with a low mortality rate. FIP, on the other hand, has a very high mortality rate, however, its causative agent is the mutated form of coronavirus. Thus, strictly speaking, FIP itself is not contagious. The FIP virus is a mutated version of the coronavirus that the cat is already carrying, and is not spread between cats.

What are the Symptoms of FIP?

Feline infectious peritonitis can manifest in two primary forms: effusive (wet) FIP and non-effusive (dry) FIP. In the early stages, a cat may display general symptoms such as lethargy and decreased appetite, with other signs being less obvious. As the disease progresses, cats with dry FIP may present with hazy eyes, vision problems, mild fever, and weight loss. Some cats may also experience hind limb paralysis or muscle spasms. In contrast, wet FIP is characterized by breathing difficulties, complete loss of appetite, anemia, and significant weight loss. Male cats may also exhibit scrotal swelling. Recognizing these symptoms is crucial for early diagnosis and management of the disease. Trusted by:Pet Naming