25/08/2026
Marmalade presented a few months ago to our out of hours team with laboured breathing. After investigations, Marmalade was found to have abnormal fluid in his chest. This was drained to give him immediate relief, and after further testing, he was diagnosed with Feline Infectious peritonitis (FIP).
FIP is a serious disease caused by Feline Coronavirus (FCoV). FCoV is common in the UK but most cats that have it remain healthy, or have a mild tummy upset such as diarrhoea. A very small number of cats with FCoV can develop FIP when the FCoV mutates and the immune system reacts.
Cats of all ages and breed can develop FIP but risks may be higher if your cat:
Is less than 2 years old.
Is kept with lots of cats i.e. a breeding or rescue centre.
Has had a stressful event i.e. moving house, respiratory disease, in rescue centre or introduction of a new cat into your home.
Is a pedigree breed.
FIP appears in 2 forms, though early signs could be fever, weight loss, low energy and poor appetite.
Wet FIP causes fluid to build up in the abdomen or chest leading to a swollen belly or severe breathing difficulties - as with Marmalade.
Dry FIP cause chronic inflammation and granulomas (lumps) in organ, often affecting eyes (causing cloudiness or bleeding) and the central nervous system (causing seizures or balance issues).
Diagnosis of FIP is challenging as the symptoms mimic other illnesses, and vets rely on blood work, fluid analysis and clinical signs.
Historically fatal, FIP can now often be treated successfully using specialized antiviral medications administered over a multi-month course. These drugs have been revolutionary for patients, enabling most to make a full recovery.
The team, especially vets Jess and Mariella who lead his care, have all grown quite attached to Marmalade over the last few months, especially as he was hospitalised intensively when he was very poorly.
We were all delighted to see him back last week, doing so well on his medication, thanks also to his dedicated owners. We are hopeful he will now make a full recovery. Well done Marmalade!
