My kitten has a bloated stomach, no other symptoms. Is it FIP?

Related Answers from Veterinarians

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  Answered By Angela Hinton, DVM

  Veterinarian

  Published on May 26th, 2018

  Hello there! I am sorry your little kitten isn't feeling well. Based on what you are describing my top concern would be FIP (feline infectious peritonitis). This is a viral infection that is pretty common in kittens and especially kittens that are in a shelter environment. Has your vet checked to see if there is free fluid in her abdomen? Her bloating could be due to extra fluid. If there is fluid, that raises my suspicion even more for FIP. You could also get a sample of this fluid to be analyzed as well. There is a blood test to check for corona virus which is what causes FIP, but it isn't specific for the particular mutation that causes FIP. Meaning they can be positive but not actually have FIP. If she were to be negative for corona virus then it is pretty unlikely this is FIP and you would have to do other testing such as abdominal ultrasounds. But if it's positive it's another thing that seems to point in the same direction. Unfortunately, if it is FIP that is poor prognosis. Most kittens do not do well. The bloating in her belly is uncomfortable and can make it harder to eat. And having a fever makes them feel badly too. I am worried that this little girl might not have a good outcome. But you could at least check for the fluid and consider the corona virus test to get some more information. I hope this information was helpful for you and I wish you and your bottle baby all the best! Dr. Angela Hinton

  

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  Answered By Cara, DVM, cVMA

  Veterinarian

  Published on June 22nd, 2017

  I assume you mean FIP or feline infectious peritonitis. It can cause abdominal swelling due to fluid buildup in the abdomen and can also cause vomiting and diarrhea. FIP is a very serious fatal disease, however parasites that are easily treated can also cause these signs. I would take Sassy to a veterinarian so they can evaluate her and check her stool for parasites. Hopefully it's something easily fixed!

  

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  Answered By Jeffrey Milner

  Veterinarian

  Published on April 18th, 2018

  FIP is an infectious disease, so if one of the cats has it there is a reasonable chance that all of your cats could have, or be in the process of developing, the condition. While some symptoms you are describing can occur with FIP, so can a long list of others. If he is painful in his belly to the point that he is resistant to you even touching it, he needs a physical exam, x-rays, and some diagnostic blood work. Its possible that his upper respiratory infection never truly got resolved, and has spread systemically affecting multiple organ systems. There is no definitive diagnostic tool for FIP either. There are only certain factors that will lead your veterinarian in that direction, particularly determine whether or not it is the form that has an extremely high mortality rate. Let me know if I can help you further.

  

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