Cats are quintessential pets, along with dogs, and one of the most distinctive characteristics of cats is their independence, however, these animals are also very affectionate and need care, in order to ensure a healthy state of health.full health, well-being.
Like any animal, cats are susceptible to various diseases and many of them are infectious, so it is essential to know how to identify the symptoms of certain pathologies that require urgent treatment.
- In this article by Animal Expert we talk about feline infectious peritonitis.
- As well as the treatment necessary for this disease.
Feline infectious peritonitis, also known as PIF, or FIF is the most common cause of death in cats due to an infectious disease.
This pathology is a bad reaction of the immune system and the most accepted hypothesis is that it is caused by feline coronavirus.Under normal conditions, the cat’s immune system is able to completely eliminate the virus, but in some cases the immune system reaction is abnormal, the virus is not eliminated and eventually causes peritonitis.
The term “peritonitis” indicates inflammation of the peritoneum, which is the membrane that lines the abdominal viscera, however, when we talk about infectious feline peritonitis, we mean vascularitis, i.e. inflammation of the blood vessels.
This disease can become common in large groups of cats, however, domestic cats that are in regular contact with the outside can also become infected.
The virus that causes peritonitis in cats infects the feline’s body by inhaling or ingesting the pathogen, which is found in contaminated faeces and surfaces.
Symptoms of peritonitis in cats will depend on the affected blood vessels and the organs to which they provide blood and nutrients, in addition, two forms of disease can be distinguished, one acute and one chronic.
If you notice any of these symptoms in your cat, you should urgently see the veterinarian to confirm the diagnosis.
The definitive diagnosis of this disease can only be made by biopsy or after the death of the animal, however, the veterinarian will order a blood test to evaluate the following parameters:
From the results obtained, the veterinarian will be able to confirm the diagnosis of infectious feline peritonitis.
Feline infectious peritonitis is considered an incurable disease although its remission is sometimes observed, so several therapeutic tools can be used in its treatment.
Depending on each specific case, the veterinarian may use the following measures:
Remember that the veterinarian is the only person qualified to recommend a specific treatment and will also be the same person who can offer you a prognosis, which will vary depending on the case.
One of the most effective preventive tools is the control of cats that have already been diagnosed with infectious feline peritonitis, this control should be based on excellent hygiene of the cat’s accessories and its environment, such as a restriction of departures to the cat outside..
While it is true that there is a vaccine against infectious feline peritonitis, studies that evaluate its effectiveness are inconclusive and in some cases its application is not recommended, your veterinarian will be able to evaluate the administration of this to your cat.
This article is merely informative, at Animal Expert.com.br we cannot prescribe veterinary treatments or carry out any type of diagnosis, we suggest that you take your pet to the veterinarian in case of any type of condition or discomfort.
If you would like to read articles similar to, we recommend that you visit our Viral Diseases section.