Beans is a 6 month old Persian mix who was brought to Creek View by his wonderful owners who noticed that his stomach looked a little larger than normal. Upon physical examination, Dr. Correll was able to feel an accumulation of extra fluid within Beans’ abdomen. Radiographs followed by an ultrasound further confirmed the presence of fluid so Dr. Correll took a sample to evaluate its components. The microscopic evaluation of the fluid showed a clear, yellow protein filled fluid, consistent with a diagnosis of Feline Infection Peritonitis (FIP).

FIP is a viral disease caused by feline coronavirus which are a group of viruses that infect the respiratory and gastrointestinal tracts. Coronaviruses are common in cats, usually causes no or minimal signs and resolve on its own. However, some strains of the virus can mutate within the cat to a more harmful type of virus and cause FIP. Coronavirus is typically spread through oral contact with infected feces and most commonly diagnosed in kittens due to their rapid growth rate. Signs that can accompany FIP include lethargy, decreased appetite, and fluctuating fever. In some cases, there is no fluid buildup and the cat will only display eye inflammation but in others (such as Beans), the cat will develop the “wet” form of FIP which involves an accumulation of fluid in body cavities, causing an enlarged stomach or sometimes difficulty breathing.

Dr. Correll and Beans’ owner discussed the use of this game-changing novel therapy and Beans began receiving the medication very quickly after his diagnosis. He still has a couple of weeks left of his initial course of treatment but his owners are happy to report that Beans is doing great and successfully battling this devastating disease!