🐈 FIP (feline infectious peritonitis)
A serious viral disease, most common in young cats; persistent fever or a swollen belly means a vet now.
What is it?
FIP develops when feline coronavirus (a common, usually mild gut virus) mutates inside a cat. It is most common in cats under two and in catteries and multi-cat homes.
Signs
- Fever that does not respond to antibiotics, dullness, poor appetite and weight loss.
- Wet form: a swollen belly or laboured breathing from fluid in the abdomen or chest.
- Dry form: eye or nervous signs (wobbliness, seizures).
How does it spread?
The original virus spreads through faeces and shared litter trays. The mutation happens inside the cat, so not every cat with coronavirus gets FIP.
Prevention
- Enough litter trays (one per cat plus one) and daily cleaning.
- Less crowding and stress in the cattery.
- Quarantine and test new cats.
🚨 When to call the vet at once
Any young cat with persistent fever, a swollen belly or fast breathing should see a vet at once. Antiviral treatments are now available through vets in many countries.
📱 How Zajel helps
Log temperature, weight and signs under Health; Zajel warns you when weight drops.
This information is general. Diagnosis and doses always stay with your vet.
Sources: Merck Veterinary Manual — Feline Infectious Peritonitis · International Cat Care