How to Care for a Cat with FIP?

Caring for a cat with feline infectious peritonitis (FIP) requires a comprehensive approach combining medical management, nutritional support, environmental adjustments, and vigilant monitoring. Below is a detailed guide tailored to support cats during treatment and improve their quality of life:

I. Medical Management: Ensuring Treatment Compliance

1. Antiviral Therapy Administration

• Injection Protocol (Most Common):
  • GS-441524 or GC376: Administer subcutaneously (SC) as prescribed (typically once daily).
  • Key Steps:
    • Use sterile technique; rotate injection sites (abdomen, flank, scruff) to prevent tissue irritation.
    • Warm the medication to room temperature before injection to reduce discomfort.
  • Oral Formulations: If prescribed, ensure the cat swallows the full dose (may require pill pockets or syringe administration).
• Medication Tracking:
  • Keep a daily log of dosage, injection site, and any adverse reactions (e.g., local swelling, loss of appetite).

2. Supportive Medications

• Antibiotics: For secondary bacterial infections (e.g., amoxicillin-clavulanate), complete the full course.
• Anti-nauseants (e.g., Cerenia): If the cat refuses food due to nausea.
• Fluid Therapy: For wet FIP, veterinarians may drain abdominal/chest fluid or prescribe subcutaneous fluids at home for dehydration.

II. Nutritional Support: Fueling Recovery

1. High-Quality, Palatable Diet

• Key Nutritional Goals:
  • High Protein: Target 50–60% of calories from animal-based protein (e.g., chicken, fish, turkey) to support organ repair and immune function.
  • Moderate Fat, Low Carbohydrates: Avoid grains or fillers, which may exacerbate inflammation.
  • Caloric Density: Choose energy-dense foods (e.g., canned food over dry kibble) to meet high metabolic needs.
• Recommended Foods:
  • Prescription diets for hepatic or renal support (if organs are affected), or high-end commercial diets like Royal Canin Recovery, Hill’s Prescription Diet A/D, or homemade diets approved by a veterinary nutritionist.

2. Encouraging Appetite

• Warm Food: Heat canned food slightly to enhance aroma.
• Hand-Feeding: Offer small portions on a spoon or finger if the cat is reluctant to eat.
• Appetite Stimulants: Consult a vet about medications like mirtazapine or cyproheptadine if anorexia persists.

3. Hydration Management

• Offer Fresh Water: Place multiple water bowls around the home, or use a cat water fountain to encourage drinking.
• Wet Food as Hydration Source: Canned food contains ~70% water; mix with warm water to create a soupy consistency.
• Subcutaneous Fluids: If prescribed, learn to administer SC fluids at home to prevent dehydration (common in wet FIP).

III. Environmental Adjustments: Minimizing Stress

1. Create a Stress-Free Haven

• Quiet Space: Designate a cozy, low-traffic room with soft bedding, blankets, and hiding spots (e.g., cardboard boxes) to reduce anxiety.
• Temperature Control: Keep the environment warm (75–80°F/24–27°C), as FIP cats may have trouble regulating body temperature.
• Limit Changes: Avoid rearranging furniture, introducing new pets, or loud noises, which can exacerbate stress.

2. Litter Box Care

• Multiple Boxes: Have 1 more litter box than the number of cats; use unscented, clumping litter for sensitivity.
• Frequent Cleaning: Scoop daily to maintain hygiene, as cats with FIP may be more sensitive to odors.

3. Gentle Interaction

• Limited Handling: Avoid excessive play or grooming if the cat is lethargic; prioritize calm cuddling or quiet companionship.
• Environmental Enrichment: Provide low-energy stimulation like bird-watching through a window or slow-feeder toys to prevent boredom.

IV. Symptom Monitoring: Early Detection of Issues

1. Daily Health Checks

• Temperature: Use a rectal or ear thermometer (normal: 100.5–102.5°F/38–39°C). Fever (≥103°F/39.4°C) may indicate relapse or infection.
• Weight: Weigh the cat weekly on the same scale (unintentional loss >5% of body weight is concerning).
• Appetite & Hydration: Track food/water intake; note any sudden decreases.

2. Signs of Relapse or Complications

• Wet FIP Warning Signs:
  • Recurrence of abdominal swelling (ascites), labored breathing (pleural effusion), or jaundice (yellowing of gums/skin).
• Dry FIP Warning Signs:
  • Neurological issues (seizures, stumbling, head tilt), vision changes (cloudy eyes, retinal detachment), or new lumps/lesions.
• General Red Flags:
  • Persistent vomiting, diarrhea, pale gums, or excessive lethargy.

3. Veterinary Follow-Ups

• Scheduled Tests:
  • Blood Work (A/G ratio, globulins, liver/kidney enzymes): Every 2–4 weeks to monitor inflammation and organ function.
  • Physical Exams: Regular check-ups to assess fluid accumulation, lymph node size, or neurological status.

V. Supportive Care Techniques

1. Assisting with Mobility

• Joint Support: If the cat has arthritis from inflammation, provide orthopedic bedding or ramps to access high surfaces.
• Gentle Massage: Lightly massage limbs to improve circulation, especially in cats with neurological FIP.

2. Managing Fluid Buildup (Wet FIP)

• Positioning: If the cat has difficulty breathing due to pleural effusion, prop them up on a pillow to ease respiration.
• Post-Drainage Care: After veterinary fluid removal, monitor for rapid breathing or abdominal distension.

3. Emotional Support for Caregivers

• Join Support Groups: Connect with FIP-focused communities (e.g., Facebook groups, Reddit forums) for advice and emotional support.
• Financial Resources: Explore crowdfunding, veterinary payment plans, or organizations like FIP Warriors for assistance.

VI. Special Considerations by FIP Form

1. Wet FIP (Effusive)

• Fluid Management:
  • Watch for abdominal bloating or rapid breathing; seek veterinary care if fluid re-accumulates quickly.
• Nutrition Focus: Prioritize low-sodium diets to prevent fluid retention (consult a vet before adjusting).

2. Dry FIP (Non-Effusive)

• Neurological/Ocular Care:
  • If the cat has vision loss, keep the environment consistent to avoid disorientation; use eye drops as prescribed for uveitis.
• Seizure Prevention: Minimize stimuli that may trigger seizures (e.g., loud noises, bright lights).

VII. Key Tips for Caregivers

• Stay Consistent: Adhere strictly to the treatment schedule, as missed doses increase relapse risk.
• Document Everything: Keep a journal of symptoms, medication, food intake, and weight to share with your vet.
• Practice Self-Care: Caring for an FIP cat is emotionally draining; seek support from friends or professionals when needed.

VIII. Summary Care Checklist

Care Aspect	Action Steps	Frequency
Medication	Administer antiviral injections, track doses, report side effects	Daily (during treatment)
Nutrition	Serve high-protein, palatable food; offer fluids; hand-feed if needed	3–4 times daily
Environment	Maintain a quiet, warm space; limit stressors; clean litter boxes daily	Ongoing
Monitoring	Check temperature, weight, appetite; watch for relapse signs	Daily/weekly
Vet Visits	Attend scheduled blood work and exams; seek help immediately for red flags	As directed by vet

Caring for an FIP cat is challenging, but with dedication and a collaborative approach with your veterinarian, you can significantly improve their comfort and chances of recovery. Remember that early intervention and consistent care are pivotal to their prognosis.