07/30/2026
🐱✨ **Meet Benny!** ✨🐱..one of the sweetest feline patients we have the pleasure of caring for! ❤️
When Benny first came to see us, his owners noticed subtle changes that just didn't seem right. Because they acted quickly and sought veterinary care early, Dr. Ladner was able to diagnose Benny with Feline Infectious Peritonitis (FIP). Today, Benny came in for his recheck, and we are thrilled to report that he is doing AMAZING! His hair is growing back and he has since gained 3.4 pounds since diagnoses and treatment!! He definitely looks like a new man! 🎉
Benny's story is a wonderful reminder of how important it is to trust your instincts when something seems "off" with your pet. Early intervention, combined with Dr. Ladner's medical expertise and Benny's dedicated family, has given him the opportunity for an incredible recovery.
💙 **What is Feline Infectious Peritonitis (FIP)?**
FIP is a disease caused by a mutation of the feline coronavirus. While many cats are exposed to feline coronavirus and never become seriously ill, in a small percentage of cats the virus mutates, triggering an intense inflammatory response throughout the body.
🐾 Signs of FIP can be vague and may include:
• Decreased appetite
• Weight loss
• Fever that doesn't improve with antibiotics
• Lethargy
• Fluid buildup in the abdomen or chest (the "wet" form)
• Eye inflammation or neurologic signs such as wobbliness or seizures (the "dry" form)
🩺 How is it diagnosed?
There is no single test that definitively diagnoses FIP. Veterinarians use a combination of physical examination findings, bloodwork, imaging (such as ultrasound or radiographs), analysis of body fluids when present, and specialized laboratory testing to reach a diagnosis.
💊 Can it be treated?
The answer today is YES! Years ago, FIP was almost always considered fatal. Thanks to advances in veterinary medicine, antiviral medications have dramatically changed the outlook for many cats with FIP. When diagnosed early and treated appropriately, many cats can achieve remission and go on to live happy, healthy lives.
We couldn't be happier for Benny and his wonderful family. Thank you for trusting us with his care, and thank you to Dr. Ladner for helping make stories like Benny's possible. ❤️
Help us celebrate Benny's progress by leaving him some love in the comments! 🐾🐈
