Feline infectious peritonitis (FIP) and corona virus enteritis are both considered feline corona viruses. Though not the same virus, the blood test currently used cannot differentiate between the two, though a positive blood test will at least make your veterinarian aware that your cat may possibly have one of these diseases.
Though relatively uncommon, FIP generally proves fatal. Cats between the ages of six months and five years are most commonly affected. There are two forms of FIP: 'wet' FIP, which affects the lining of the abdominal and/or chest cavities and can lead to massive fluid accumulation; and 'dry' FIP, which can affect a variety of organs, including the brain, eyes, kidneys and lymph nodes. Corona virus enteritis is a much milder intestinal disease that occurs in kittens up to the age of twelve weeks. This infection is quite common, particularly in multiple cat households, but rarely proves serious.
Some factors can involve in increased risk, including multiple cat households in which one or more cats are infected or exposed and cats who are allowed outdoors. There is a preventative vaccine for FIP, and cats with increased risk factors should be considered for this preventative vaccine. Cats diagnosed with corona virus enteritis generally have an excellent prognosis. However, those diagnosed with FIP generally have a very poor prognosis as this disease is typically considered incurable. |
