Monitor Your Cat’s FIP at Home: Easy Symptom Guide
- BasmiFIP India
- 6 days ago
- 4 min read
When a cat is diagnosed with Feline Infectious Peritonitis (FIP), your role as the owner becomes absolutely crucial, especially if the treatment is being done at home.
Administering GS‑441524, whether through injections or pills at the right dose as advised by the Basmi FIP India, is a great start. But if you don’t track your cat’s behaviour and symptoms closely, they might continue to suffer despite the treatment.
So, how can you help your cat heal during FIP treatment at home? Let’s dive into everything you need to know in this article!
A Quick Overview of FIP
As we all know, FIP is a deadly disease that has become a nightmare for both cats and their owners. This illness is caused by a mutation of the Feline Coronavirus (FCoV).
Broadly speaking, FIP can be divided into several types: Wet FIP, Dry FIP, Ocular FIP, and Neurological FIP. All four share similar general symptoms but differ in clinical signs.
Wet FIP is characterised by abdominal swelling, while Dry FIP is marked by vomiting and drastic weight loss. FYI, Dry FIP is often diagnosed late because its symptoms resemble those of other diseases.
Meanwhile, Ocular FIP is a type of FIP that affects the eyes, whereas Neurological FIP attacks the central nervous system. Neurological FIP is considered the most complex form of FIP.
Overview of Common FIP Symptoms
Conducting a monitor of FIP at home daily is crucial because it lets you see whether the cat is improving or deteriorating.
When monitoring a cat with FIP at home, you can focus on these four key FIP symptoms in cats.
Fever That Doesn’t Subside
Fever is a physical sign that appears when a cat has an infection. If the cat’s fever does not come down during treatment, you must be alert.
As a reminder, a normal cat’s temperature ranges between 38–39 °C. If their temperature consistently goes over 39 °C, take them to the vet immediately.
Weight Loss and Appetite
If the cat is improving, their weight usually starts to increase gradually, returning towards their original weight. The same applies to their appetite.
However, if the cat eats less than usual or stops eating entirely, you need to be concerned. Also, don’t ignore continued weight loss even if they seem to be eating well.
Behaviour and Activity
Changes in behaviour and activity, such as:
Lethargy or sleeping excessively,
hiding or isolating themselves,
not responding to calls or stimuli, and
not playing as before
—can signal that they are uncomfortable or in pain. Always pay close attention to your cat’s behaviour and activity!
Breathing and Fluid Buildup
Cats diagnosed with wet FIP may experience fluid accumulation in the chest or abdomen. This can lead to difficulty breathing and heavy panting.
If the cat begins to show excessive shortness of breath, take them to the nearest veterinary clinic or hospital as soon as possible.
Your vet might recommend thoracocentesis or abdominocentesis (the removal of fluid from the lungs or abdomen) to help the cat breathe more easily.
Using A Healthy Diary for Your Cat
One effective hack when caring for a cat with FIP at home is to create a daily health log. You can use a notebook, spreadsheet, or app to record.
date and time of observation,
body temperature,
weight,
level of appetite,
behavioural changes, and
any other symptoms that appear.
With thorough and consistent records, you’ll find it easier to consult with your vet.
Additionally, you’ll be better placed to assess whether the medication is working or if you should consider alternative treatments.
When to Take the Cat Back to the Vet
If your cat starts to show any of the following signs, contact your vet immediately, as it’s better to act swiftly than regret later:
body temperature rises drastically (>40 °C),
refuses to eat for more than 24 hours,
breathing difficulties become worse,
ongoing weight loss, or
the cat appears extremely weak or non‑responsive.
Tools to Help Monitor FIP at Home
To make it easier for you to monitor your cat’s condition at home, prepare the following tools.
Digital thermometer for measuring body temperature.
Lubricant (such as petroleum jelly) to aid thermometer use.
Digital scales to track body weight.
Notebook or app for daily condition log.
Phone camera to document symptoms you may need to discuss with your vet.
The Role of Family in Supporting the Cat’s Recovery
Caring for a cat battling FIP is far from easy. You may feel tired and anxious. That’s why your family’s involvement is vital.
Other family members can help by reminding you of medication schedules, taking temperature readings (cats often resist), and observing behavioural changes.
They can also provide emotional support to you and help with self-care. Although it’s tough, when done together, the burden feels lighter.
Final Thought
Your love and attention are key to your cat’s recovery from FIP. With careful daily symptom monitoring, organised logs, and effective communication with the vet, you can help your cat get through this challenging time.
Don’t hesitate to seek professional help if anything worries you. Contact the Basmi FIP India Team via WhatsApp right away if you’d like advice on medication or need moral support. We’re always here for you.
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