As a cat lover, you surely want to see your feline friend always healthy, active, and happy. But what if your cat suddenly seems lethargic, refuses to eat, or has a persistent fever? These behavioral changes are often overlooked, but they could be signs of serious health issues. As a caring pet owner, it's important to understand the symptoms that may indicate your cat is in danger.
Signs That Your Cat Is Unwell
Cats are experts at hiding their pain. That’s why, as an owner, you need to be extra observant in recognizing signs that might indicate health problems. If your cat shows any of the following symptoms, find out the cause immediately and take them to the vet if necessary.
1. Persistent Fever
Fever is the body's natural response to infection. However, if your cat's temperature keeps fluctuating despite medication, this could indicate a serious infection. A prolonged fever may be a sign of inflammation or bacterial and viral infections, including Feline Infectious Peritonitis (FIP). If your cat has an unexplained fever, take them to the vet immediately.
2. Loss of Appetite & Reduced Water Intake
A healthy cat usually has a stable appetite. If your cat suddenly refuses to eat or drink, it's a sign that something is wrong. A loss of appetite can be caused by many factors, from stress to severe illness. Without enough food and water, your cat may become dehydrated, which weakens its body even more. This condition is often seen in cats suffering from severe infections such as FIP.
3. Lethargy & Lack of Activity
Has your usually active and playful cat suddenly become weak, sleeping more, and losing interest in playing? This could be a warning sign of a health issue. Lethargy and inactivity are early symptoms of many diseases, including metabolic disorders, infections, and chronic conditions like FIP. If your cat appears weak and uninterested for a long period, don’t delay seeking medical help.
Beware of FIP in Cats
One of the most dangerous diseases that often goes unnoticed is Feline Infectious Peritonitis (FIP). This disease is caused by a mutation of the feline coronavirus and can attack multiple organs in the body. FIP has two main forms:
Wet (Effusive) FIP: Characterized by fluid buildup in the abdomen or chest.
Dry (Non-Effusive) FIP: Can cause neurological disorders (Neurological FIP), eye inflammation (Ocular FIP), and other complications.
Since FIP symptoms often resemble other illnesses, many cat owners fail to detect it early. That’s why early diagnosis is crucial for increasing a cat’s chances of survival. If your cat has a persistent fever, loss of appetite, and prolonged lethargy, consult a vet immediately.
How to Prevent FIP in Cats
Although FIP is difficult to prevent completely, there are some steps you can take to reduce the risk of infection:
Maintain a Clean Environment
The feline coronavirus spreads through feces and saliva. Keep the litter box clean and avoid waste buildup around your home.Minimize Stress
Stress weakens a cat’s immune system, making them more susceptible to infections. Provide a safe and comfortable environment for your cat.Avoid Contact with Unknown Cats
If you have multiple cats, do not introduce a new cat without a proper health check.Ensure a Healthy Diet & Proper Nutrition
Good nutrition helps strengthen the immune system, making it easier for cats to fight off infections.
What to Do If Your Cat Has FIP?
Early diagnosis and treatment is essential to give them the best hope for recovery. Medical technology is advancing, and there are now various treatment methods that can increase the life expectancy of cats diagnosed with FIP.
As a caring cat owner, don't ignore if your pet cat shows symptoms of FIP. Take them to the nearest veterinarian immediately for proper diagnosis and treatment. If you want to consult more about FIP Virus and its treatment, you can contact Basmi FIP Malaysia on WhatsApp or visit Basmi FIP Malaysia Instagram to help us navigate. You can also read a complete guide to treating FIP in cats by clicking here.
