From what I understand of FIP, it is a mutated form of the Feline Enteric Corona Virus (FeCoV) which is very common amongst cats, though benign in nature. It is unclear, but genetics and a cat's immune response seem to play apart in the mutation of the virus. (Meaning that your cat may have been infected with FeCoV as a kitten, but only recently has the virus mutated into what is called FIP.) The mutated virus has the ability invade and grow in certain white blood cells. Because of this, the immune system reacts by creating a severe inflammatory response.
If you do receive a diagnosis of FIP, the vet might place your cat on corticosteroids and begin a series of Interferon injections. (It's a cycle of 7 days on, 7 days off for a period of months.) The purpose of this procedure is two-fold. The steroids knock out his own immune response, and the interferon restarts the immune system with a healthier response.
If you do have another cat in your house, it is critical that litterboxes, bowls, etc, are cleaned regularly with a diluted bleach solution.
Again, did your vet perform a chemistry panel? If so, it is important that you look at the albumin, globulin, and total protein levels. Please keep us updated!
If you do receive a diagnosis of FIP, the vet might place your cat on corticosteroids and begin a series of Interferon injections. (It's a cycle of 7 days on, 7 days off for a period of months.) The purpose of this procedure is two-fold. The steroids knock out his own immune response, and the interferon restarts the immune system with a healthier response.
If you do have another cat in your house, it is critical that litterboxes, bowls, etc, are cleaned regularly with a diluted bleach solution.
Again, did your vet perform a chemistry panel? If so, it is important that you look at the albumin, globulin, and total protein levels. Please keep us updated!