What is FIP?
Feline infectious peritonitis (FIP), caused by a feline coronavirus, is seen worldwide. Although a large number of cats may be infected with the feline coronavirus, only a few develop clinical FIP. The disease is progressive and may manifest clinically as a continuum between the effusive (serositis or wet) and noneffusive (granulomatous or dry) forms. A distinct clinical form of noneffusive FIP affecting only the eyes or brain (or both) may be seen. Mortality, even with therapy, approaches 100%. Although primarily a disease of domestic cats, FIP has been recognized in exotic Felidae, including the large and small wild cats. Among larger cats, FIP is seen in lions, leopards, jaguars, mountain lions, and especially cheetahs. Smaller cats susceptible to FIP include the sand cat, lynx, caracal, and pallas cat.
Field strains of feline coronavirus vary in their ability to induce FIP. Some isolates cause FIP (feline infectious peritonitis virus [FIPV]); others cause more localized GI disease ( Feline Enteric Coronavirus). Mutations from feline enteric coronavirus to FIPV occur. The exact relationship between low virulence FIPV strains and feline enteric coronavirus, which is relatively nonpathogenic, is not clear. FIPV is antigenically related to and serologically cross-reacts (by current ELISA and immunofluorescent antibody tests) with a subgroup of mammalian coronaviruses, including transmissible gastroenteritis virus of swine, human coronavirus 229-E, canine coronavirus, and feline enteric coronavirus. FIPV and canine coronavirus are very closely related antigenically and may have crossed between hosts. Strains of FIPV may differ considerably in antigenicity.
Feline coronaviruses are fairly stable in the environment and, once dry, can survive for 4-6 wk. They are enveloped viruses and are destroyed by most household disinfectants, particularly household bleach at a 1:32 dilution.
Life is more beautiful with cats!
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