Coronavirus Infection in Cats

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    (feline infectious peritonitis, coronavirus enteritis)



                      General Information



Feline coronaviruses include those that cause feline infectious

peritonitis (FIP), and those that cause only a mild intestinal

disease (coronavirus enteritis).  The viruses are not the same,

but they cannot be differentiated by the current blood test.  A

positive blood test will alert the doctor to the possibility of

these diseases, and a negative test will help rule them out.

Blood tests have value in the overall diagnosis and evaluation of

your pet's illness.  Feline infectious peritonitis is relatively

uncommon and generally fatal.  It occurs primarily in cats

between 6 months and 5 years of age.  Two forms of FIP occur:

(1) a disease of the lining of the abdominal and/or chest

cavities, in which massive fluid accumulations occur (wet FIP),

and (2) a disease of various organs, such as the lymph nodes,

kidneys, eyes and brain (dry FIP).  Feline enteric coronaviruses

cause mild intestinal disease in kittens up to 12 weeks.  The

infection is common and probably exists in most homes with more

than one cat.  It may recur throughout the cat's life but is

rarely serious.



                          Prevention



1.  Currently, vaccines are not available for the prevention of

    feline coronavirus infection.



2.  Premises where FIP-affected cats have been kept should be

    treated with a disinfectant and left cat-free for some time.

    Your veterinarian will make specific recommendations.



                 Important Points in Treatment



1.  The prognosis for cats with FIP is poor.  Most authorities

    consider the disease incurable.  Treatment may ease your

    cat's discomfort and prolong life for a short time.



2.  Home care for FIP consists of providing a warm, quiet

    environment, administering the medication as directed, and

    carrying out forced feeding if necessary.  The doctor will

    explain these procedures.



3.  The prognosis for cats with coronavirus enteritis is

    excellent.  It is a self-limiting, mild diarrheal disease.



4.  Treatment for coronavirus enteritis consists of withholding

    food during the more severe stages.  Your veterinarian will

    advise you if fluids should be given to avoid dehydration.



       Notify the Doctor if Any of the Following Occur:



    * Your cat's condition worsens.



    * Your cat develops new signs.



    * You cannot give the medication or feedings as directed.