My cat is breathing fast and loud after stray contact. Is it FIP?

Question

My cat is breathing short, rapid breaths and is breathing loudly. I found a stray cat and brought him into my house for about 36 hours until I could take him to the animal shelter. The stray didn't seem to be sick at all but I was reading that Feline Infectious Peritonitis can be transferred from cats that don't show any symptoms of it. Is it possible my cat could have caught FIP and show symptoms within 36 hours? I don't have a vet near me that is open until Monday and I'm severely worried.

Rodrigo Roca, DVM · Accepted Answer

Hello, thank you for your question. Based on the symptoms that you are describing I am very concerned about your cat and would recommend having him seen by a veterinarian as soon as possible. I would look for ER clinics in your area. I think it is unlikely that your cats symptoms are related to FIP, this virus can be transferred from stray cats but it is unlikely to be transferred and cause symptoms in such a short period of time. Other possible causes of rapid/loud breathing include pneumonia or heart disease. A veterinarian will examine your cat and discuss the need for additional diagnostics based on their findings. Hope this helps!

My cat is breathing fast and loud after stray contact. Is it FIP?

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