Feline Infectious Peritonitis (FIP) is a serious disease caused by a mutation of the feline coronavirus. While FIP can be challenging to manage, understanding its two main forms can help cat owners recognize symptoms and seek appropriate care.
What is FIP?
FIP is a condition that arises when the feline coronavirus mutates, leading to severe inflammation in various parts of the body. This inflammation mainly affects the abdominal cavity but can also involve other organs, causing a range of symptoms depending on the disease’s form.
Wet Form of FIP
The wet form of FIP, or effusive FIP, involves fluid building up in the abdomen or chest due to inflammation. This can cause noticeable swelling or breathing problems.
Wet Form FIP Common Symptoms:
- Abdominal Swelling: Fluid accumulation in the abdomen can cause noticeable bloating or distension.
- Difficulty Breathing: Fluid in the chest cavity can lead to labored breathing or coughing.
- Loss of Appetite and Weight Loss: The discomfort and fluid build-up can reduce a cat’s appetite and lead to weight loss.
- Fever: Cats may have a persistent, unexplained fever.
Wet Form FIP Diagnosis and Treatment:
Diagnosis typically involves physical examination, ultrasound, and analysis of abdominal or chest fluid. Treatment focuses on managing symptoms and may include medications to reduce inflammation and fluid build-up. Recent advances in antiviral drugs like GS-441524 which Avrio Pharmacy compounds, offers new hope for managing this form of Feline Infectious Peritonitis.
Dry Form of FIP
The dry form of FIP, or non-effusive FIP, doesn’t cause fluid build-up but leads to clusters of immune cells forming in different organs. This can result in various symptoms depending on which organs are affected.
Dry Form FIP Common Symptoms:
- Persistent Fever: A high fever that doesn’t respond to typical treatments.
- Weight Loss: Gradual and unexplained weight loss.
- Neurological Issues: Symptoms like difficulty walking, seizures, or changes in behavior if the central nervous system is involved.
- Eye Problems: Inflammation or vision issues if the eyes are affected.
- Digestive Issues: Symptoms like vomiting or diarrhea if the gastrointestinal tract is involved.
Dry Form FIP Diagnosis and Treatment:
Diagnosing dry FIP often requires a combination of blood tests, imaging, and sometimes biopsy of affected organs. Treatment typically involves medications to control inflammation and support the immune system. Like with the wet form, antiviral drugs such as GS-441524, which Avrio Pharmacy compounds, can also be effective in treating dry FIP.
Key Differences Between Wet and Dry FIP
Fluid Accumulation: Wet FIP involves fluid collecting in body cavities like the abdomen or chest, while dry FIP leads to clusters of immune cells forming in various organs.
Symptoms: Wet FIP often presents with swelling and breathing difficulties, whereas dry FIP can cause a wider range of symptoms based on the affected organs.
Diagnosis: While both forms require comprehensive diagnostic approaches, wet FIP is often identified by fluid analysis, whereas dry FIP may need imaging and biopsies.
What Cat Owners Should Do
For prevention ideas, visit our prevention blog here. If you suspect your cat has symptoms of FIP, you should consult your veterinarian for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan. Early intervention can improve the chances of managing the disease effectively.
Understanding the differences between wet and dry FIP can help you recognize symptoms and seek timely care for your cat. Both forms of FIP are serious, but with advancements in treatment and supportive care, there is hope for managing the condition and improving your cat’s quality of life.
GS-441524 Treatment
Avrio Pharmacy is proud to be compounding GS-441524 tablets, providing a crucial treatment option for cats with FIP. Our commitment to providing high-quality, customized medication ensures that cats with FIP can receive a treatment option tailored to their needs.
We are proud to offer this life-saving medication at $9 per 50mg four-scored tablet. Click here to use our free dosage calculator.
