Did I make the right decision euthanizing my kitten with FIP?

Thank you for reaching out during such a difficult time. It's natural to second-guess big decisions, especially when they involve a beloved pet. Feline Infectious Peritonitis (FIP) is a complex and severe condition with a poor prognosis, particularly in its wet form. It's caused by a coronavirus that mutates in some cats, leading to a variety of symptoms such as fever, weight loss, and fluid accumulation in the abdomen or chest.



When making the decision about euthanasia, many pet owners consider the quality of life their pet would have if treatment were to continue. Since there is no universally effective treatment for FIP, it's often a compassionate choice to prevent further suffering, especially if a kitten's symptoms are severe and unmanageable.



At home, it would be essential to monitor any pet for signs of distress, such as labored breathing, extreme lethargy, or a significant drop in appetite. These can indicate that the pet's quality of life is compromised.



Remember, you made the best decision you could with the information and resources you had. If you need more support or have further questions, I encourage you to book a video consult with us at Dial A Vet. We're here to help you through this and any future concerns.