Feline Infectious Peritonitis

Question 1

What is the etiology of FIP?

Answer 1

mutation of feline enteric coronavirus (FECV)

• nearly all cats will be exposed, but only a fraction will develop FIP

Question 2

What cats are most commonly affected by FIP?

Answer 2

younger cats - 6 months to 2 years

Question 3

How is FIP transmitted?

Answer 3

direct contact, likely ingestion or inhalation of the virus

• virus is relatively unstable outside of the host and susceptible to most detergents
• may persist for 2 weeks

Question 4

What are the 2 forms of FIP?

Answer 4

1. EFFUSIVE - widespread vasculitis causes leakage of protein and fibrin rich fluid into pleural and peritoneal cavities
2. DRY - granulomatous reaction in tissues, typically involving nervous system, kidneys, eyes, LNs, or other sites (more difficult to diagnose)

Question 5

How is effusive FIP diagnosed?

Answer 5

fluid analysis

• dark yellow, sticky, and viscous
• non-septic
• high protein (globulins)
• A:G ratio <0.4

Question 6

What is considered the gold standard for diagnosing FIP? What are some other signs?

Answer 6

histopathological exmamination of biopsied tissues - perivascular pyogranulomatous inflammation often involving ileum, colon, mesenteric LNs, and liver

• mature neutrophilia, lymphopenia, non-regenerative anenima
• hyperglobulinemia
• serology is difficult to interpret

Question 7

What are some palliative treatments used for FIP?

Answer 7

• Cyclophosphamide (Cytoxan)
• corticosteroids
• interferon gamma
• Pentoxyfylline

treatment is mostly supportive

Question 8

How can FIP be prevented?

Answer 8

• vaccine - licensed for kittens over 16 weeks (maternal antibodies may wane 4-6 weeks; may cause false FECV titers)
• hygiene + sanitation
• good nutrition
• avoid overcrowding