Wet FIP in Cats: Complete Guide to Symptoms, Treatment & Prevention

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TL;DR:

Wet FIP (Feline Infectious Peritonitis) is a severe, fast-progressing viral condition caused by a mutation of the common Feline Coronavirus (FCoV). It leads to fluid buildup in the abdomen or chest, high fever, and respiratory distress. Diagnosis includes blood tests, fluid analysis, and the Rivalta test.

The antiviral GS-441524 is currently the most effective treatment available, especially when started early. Prevention includes maintaining proper hygiene, reducing stress, and minimizing exposure to FCoV.

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📚 Table of Contents

• What is Wet FIP?

• Types of FIP: Wet vs. Dry

• Common Symptoms of Wet FIP in Cats

• Fluid Detection in Wet FIP

• Should the Fluid Be Drained?

• Causes of Wet FIP

• Diagnosing Wet FIP in Cats

• When to Suspect Wet FIP?

• Treatment for Wet FIP

• Preventing Wet FIP

• Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

• Conclusion
  

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What is Wet FIP?

FIP (Feline Infectious Peritonitis) is a fatal disease caused by a mutation in the feline coronavirus (FCoV). Most cats infected with FCoV show no or mild symptoms, like diarrhea. However, in 5–10% of cases, the virus mutates inside the cat’s body, triggering an abnormal immune response known as FIP.

There are two main forms of FIP:

• Wet (Effusive): Accumulation of fluid in the abdominal or chest cavity

• Dry (Non-effusive): Inflammation of organs without fluid buildup

Types of FIP: Wet vs. Dry

Type of FIP	Main Features	Affected Organs
Wet	Fluid buildup	Abdomen, lungs (pleura)
Dry	Organ inflammation without fluid	Eyes, brain, and kidneys

Read Also: GS-441524 Offers a New Lifeline for Cats Battling FIP

Common Symptoms of Wet FIP in Cats

General Symptoms:

• Persistent fever that doesn’t respond to antibiotics

• Lethargy or unusual tiredness

• Loss of appetite

• Sudden weight loss

Specific to Wet FIP:

• Distended belly (due to fluid buildup)

• Fast, shallow breathing (fluid in the chest cavity)

• Fluid is typically yellow-golden and sticky in texture

Fluid Detection in Wet FIP

1. Physical Examination:

• Painless abdominal swelling

• Laboured breathing if pleural effusion is present

2. Diagnostic Imaging:

• Ultrasound to identify fluid in the abdomen

• Chest X-ray for fluid in the lungs

3. Fluid Analysis:

• High protein concentration (>3.5 g/dL)

• Yellow and thick fluid

• Rivalta test is often positive in FIP cases

  
  

Should the Fluid Be Drained?

Drainage is advisable when:

• Breathing is severely compromised

• Sample collection is required for diagnosis

Routine drainage is discouraged because:

• Removes vital proteins and antibodies

• May cause dehydration and electrolyte imbalance

• Fluid often reaccumulates unless the root cause is treated

Read Also: Types of FIP: Wet vs. Dry FIP

Causes of Wet FIP: Virus Mutation & Weak Immunity

FIP itself is not contagious, but the underlying virus (FCoV) is. FIP occurs when a mutated strain of FCoV overcomes the immune system.

Risk Factors:

• Multi-cat households or shelters

• Kittens under 2 years of age

• Pedigree breeds like Ragdolls, Bengals, and Birmans

• Chronic stress

Diagnosing Wet FIP in Cats

Since no single test can confirm FIP with 100% certainty, vets use a combination of:

• Blood test: Anemia, high globulins, low A/G ratio

• Fluid analysis: High protein, Rivalta positive

• Effusion PCR: Detects viral RNA (if available)

• Immunohistochemistry (IHC): Gold standard for definitive diagnosis

When to Suspect Wet FIP?

Likely Wet FIP if:

• Sudden abdominal swelling

• Breathing difficulty without a known cause

• A fever that does not respond to antibiotics

Unlikely Wet FIP if:

• Swelling is limited or one-sided

• The cat remains active and eats normally

• No fever or fluid accumulation detected

Treatment for Wet FIP

GS-441524:

• An antiviral drug has proven effective against FIP

• Treatment duration: 84 days (oral or injectable)

• Success rate over 80% if started early

Supportive Therapy:

• IV fluids (if dehydrated)

• High-protein, high-calorie diet

• Immune, gut, and liver supplements

Ensure you get medicine from a trusted source like BasmiFIP India.

Preventing Wet FIP

• Limit cat density in shared spaces

• Clean litter trays daily

• Reduce household stress (no sudden changes)

• Avoid mixing healthy cats with FCoV carriers

  
  

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can Wet FIP be cured?

Yes. With GS-441524, many cats recover fully if treated early.

What are the signs of FIP in cats?

Persistent fever, swollen abdomen, fatigue, loss of appetite, and weight loss.

How long can a kitten live with Wet FIP without treatment?

Typically 1–3 weeks. With treatment, they can fully recover.

What’s the survival time for cats with FIP?

Without treatment: 2–4 weeks. With GS therapy, many return to normal life.

What is the treatment for Wet FIP in cats?

• GS-441524 (oral/injectable)

• Nutritional and immune support

What is the medicine for Wet FIP?

GS-441524 is the only clinically proven antiviral treatment.

Difference between Wet and Dry FIP?

• Wet: Belly swelling, fluid in chest/abdomen

• Dry: Inflammation in eyes, brain, or organs — no fluid

Conclusion

Wet FIP is no longer a death sentence. With early diagnosis and treatment using GS-441524, many cats make a full recovery. Pet owners in India should stay informed, act fast, and consult trusted providers.

👉 Visit Basmi FIP India for expert advice, support, and reliable access to treatment.

Act early, treat confidently, and give your cat a second chance at life!