Caring for FIP and FIV Pos Older Kitty

[manu toigo]

Really need some feedback and support.  I rescued a cat from my work last year in July and he became an instant celebrity in my home with lots of spunk and loving personality which to say, he's very thankful to be off the streets.  He's since been indoors with no concerns with my other 2 male cats.  Well, very suddenly, he became sick and raced him to the vets. He tested pos for FIV and fluid from the stomach cavity was taken for testing and to relieve his breathing. (Watermelon size stomach).  That fluid test was FIP pos.  Trying to do everything for him for his final days as I'm told there is nothing they can do for him.  My Concern is possibly passing the virus onto my other 2 boys.  They don't lay together, pretty much stay to themselves. But how high risk is this having them in the same small home.  Any ideas because I'm not seeing the answers on the web.  Much appreciated, Manu

 

[margd]

I'm so sorry to hear about your kitty.  At least the last part of his life has been surrounded by love and caring - that is a big gift you have given him.

In terms of the risk to your other cats;    The virus that causes FIP is contagious but the infection rarely develops into a full blown case of FIP.   Reading this article from the Cornell Feline Health Center might relieve your worries:

 http://www.vet.cornell.edu/fhc/Health_Information/brochure_ftp.cfm   

The virus that causes FIV is usually spread by cat bites.  Since you describe a peaceful situation, your boys may be fine.  Here's the article on FIV, again from the Cornell Feline Health Center.  It does suggest that you have your other cats tested once you find you have an FIV + cat in your home.  

http://www.vet.cornell.edu/fhc/Health_Information/brochure_fiv.cfm

I don't have any experience dealing with either disease so hopefully someone with actual experience will chime in.  I just wanted to give you the reassurance that based on these two articles, the risk of your boys coming down with either disease seems to be low.  

Again, I am very sorry about your other cat.  

 

[stephenq]

 
Really need some feedback and support.  I rescued a cat from my work last year in July and he became an instant celebrity in my home with lots of spunk and loving personality which to say, he's very thankful to be off the streets.  He's since been indoors with no concerns with my other 2 male cats.  Well, very suddenly, he became sick and raced him to the vets. He tested pos for FIV and fluid from the stomach cavity was taken for testing and to relieve his breathing. (Watermelon size stomach).  That fluid test was FIP pos.  Trying to do everything for him for his final days as I'm told there is nothing they can do for him.  My Concern is possibly passing the virus onto my other 2 boys.  They don't lay together, pretty much stay to themselves. But how high risk is this having them in the same small home.  Any ideas because I'm not seeing the answers on the web.  Much appreciated, Manu

I'm so sorry for you and your cat.  Most cats with the wet form of FIP experience significant discomfort and as there is no treatment other than a very temporary and partial relief of symptoms by draining fluids, most vets suggest and most owners agree to humane euthanasia.  She may have some relief but continuing to keep her is going to prolong the inevitable and dying naturally from FIP isn't pleasant so i urge you to monitor her and then give her the final gift we can give them when the time comes.

 

[manu toigo]

Thank you so very much. I've been very particular about the kitty litter and foods with all cats. I hope this will help. I have read those links you posted which does help.  Thank you again.