Types of FIP: Wet vs. Dry FIP

Feline Infectious Peritonitis (FIP) is a serious disease caused by a mutation of the common feline coronavirus (FCoV). When this mutation happens, it leads to FIP—a potentially fatal condition that affects a cat’s internal organs, immune system, and overall health.

FIP appears in two primary forms:

• Wet (Effusive) FIP

• Dry (Non-effusive) FIP
  

Understanding the differences between these forms is important, as they affect symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment decisions. At BASMI FIP™ India, we help cat parents across India identify, manage, and treat both forms effectively.

💧 What is Wet (Effusive) FIP?

Wet FIP is the more common and faster-progressing form of the disease. It's called "effusive" because it causes fluid buildup inside the cat's abdomen or chest cavity. This fluid causes discomfort, difficulty breathing, and swelling.

🐾 Common Symptoms of Wet FIP

• Bloated or swollen belly due to fluid in the abdomen

• Difficulty breathing if fluid accumulates in the chest

• Persistent fever not responding to antibiotics

• Weight loss despite normal or reduced appetite

• Lethargy and weakness
  

Wet FIP can progress very quickly, so early detection is vital. A physical exam and fluid analysis can often confirm the diagnosis. If your cat is showing these signs, consult your vet immediately and explore treatment options like FIP injections or oral FIP pills.

🧠 What is Dry (Non-effusive) FIP?

Dry FIP, on the other hand, does not involve fluid accumulation. Instead, it causes inflammation in specific organs such as the liver, kidneys, eyes, or brain. This form tends to develop more slowly and is harder to diagnose.

🐾 Common Symptoms of Dry FIP

• Eye changes (discoloration, cloudiness, inflammation)

• Neurological signs (head tilt, seizures, unsteady walking)

• Jaundice (yellowing of gums or ears)

• Weight loss and muscle wasting

• Enlarged lymph nodes or liver

• Behavioral changes
  

Since symptoms vary widely depending on which organ is affected, dry FIP is often misdiagnosed as other illnesses.

🔬 Key Differences in Symptoms

The main differences between wet FIP and dry FIP lie in how the disease presents itself and progresses. Wet FIP typically causes a rapid onset of symptoms, most notably a buildup of fluid in the abdomen or chest, which can lead to a swollen belly and difficulty breathing. This form is usually easier to diagnose through fluid analysis. In contrast, dry FIP develops more gradually and does not involve fluid accumulation. Instead, it affects specific organs like the eyes, brain, liver, or kidneys. Cats with dry FIP may show neurological symptoms such as unsteady walking, seizures, or head tilting, as well as eye inflammation or jaundice. Because the symptoms depend on which organ is affected, dry FIP is more challenging to identify and can often be mistaken for other illnesses. Understanding these differences is crucial for timely diagnosis and choosing the right treatment approach.

Knowing which form your cat has helps your vet decide on the best treatment plan. At BASMI FIP™, our FIP treatment guidelines help you understand how to move forward.

🧪 Diagnosis Challenges Between Wet and Dry FIP

Wet FIP is usually easier to diagnose through a simple fluid analysis (Rivalta test or protein testing).

Dry FIP, however, requires more advanced testing like blood work, ultrasound, ocular exams, or even biopsy in some cases.

In India, access to advanced diagnostics may be limited in some regions. If your cat has vague or mixed symptoms, speak with a vet familiar with FIP or reach out to BASMI FIP™ for guidance.

💊 Impact of FIP Type on Treatment Strategy

Thankfully, both wet and dry FIP can be treated with antiviral medications like:

• GS-441524 injectable treatment

• Molnupiravir-based FIP pills

Treatment Considerations:

Wet FIP usually responds faster to treatment but needs close monitoring for fluid-related distress.

Dry FIP, especially if neurological or ocular signs are present, may require a longer treatment course and higher doses.

Use our FIP dosage calculator to get accurate dosage based on your cat’s weight and condition type.

❤️ Final Thoughts

Whether it’s wet or dry, FIP is no longer a death sentence. With early detection, the right antiviral treatment, and continued support, many cats in India have made full recoveries.

At BASMI FIP™ India, we’re here to walk you through every step of your cat’s journey—from understanding the type of FIP to choosing the best treatment.

If you're unsure about your cat’s symptoms or need help starting treatment, don’t hesitate to contact us. You're not alone—thousands of Indian cat parents have turned to BASMI FIP™ and seen hope return.