I'm really struggling here and need some advice. I recently took my cat, Oliver, to the vet for his routine check-up, and everything seemed fine. He's his usual playful self, eating and running around as usual. But after some blood work, the vet called me back and dropped a bombshell: Oliver tested positive for Feline Infectious Peritonitis (FIP). The part that's really throwing me off is that he doesn't show any symptoms. He's not lethargic, his appetite is normal, and he's still the little furball of energy that wakes me up at 3 AM for extra pets. I'm so confused right now. Has anyone else experienced something like this? Can a cat genuinely be asymptomatic with FIP? I'm just trying to wrap my head around what this means for us and what steps I should be taking next. Any insights or similar experiences would really help calm my nerves right now. Thanks in advance!
Hello! It sounds like you're navigating a confusing situation with your cat, and I'm here to help. FIP, or feline infectious peritonitis, is indeed a challenging condition. Notably, a positive test doesn’t always mean immediate symptoms, as some cats can carry the feline coronavirus, which can mutate into FIP, while remaining asymptomatic for some time.
It's important to keep an eye on your cat for potential changes. Key things to watch for include decreased appetite, weight loss, fever, lethargy, or difficulty breathing. If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s crucial to act.
At home, ensure your cat is in a stress-free environment, as stress can sometimes contribute to the development of disease. Provide plenty of fresh water and high-quality, easily digestible food. Maintaining a clean litter box is also beneficial, as it helps prevent secondary infections.
If you notice any worrying signs or if your cat seems unwell, it’s best to reach out to a veterinarian promptly. While asymptomatic, keeping regular veterinary checkups can help monitor your cat’s health more closely.
I recommend booking a video consult with Dial A Vet to discuss your cat's specific situation further and get personalized advice on monitoring and care. We're here to support you!
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