Types of FIP: FIP vs Neurological, What Are the Symptoms and Treatments?

Feline Infectious Peritonitis (FIP) is a disease in cats caused by a mutation of the Feline Coronavirus (FCoV). This virus, which affects 1–2% of the global cat population, mutates into a more aggressive form and can spread rapidly.

Generally, cat owners only recognize two types of FIP: wet FIP and dry FIP. Wet FIP is characterized by fluid buildup in the body cavities, while dry FIP is usually seen with rapid weight loss.

Besides these two well-known types, there are other forms of FIP — namely ocular FIP and neurological FIP. Both are complex and require intensive care.

Curious about the differences in symptoms, treatments, and prognosis of ocular FIP and neurological FIP? Let’s check out the explanation prepared by the Cure FIP GCC Team!

Definition of Ocular FIP and Neurological FIP

Ocular FIP is a form of FIP that attacks the cat’s eyes. It affects not only the iris but also the pupil and internal structures of the eye.

Usually, this condition occurs in cats infected with dry FIP, meaning they don’t show fluid accumulation in the abdominal or chest cavities. Ocular FIP can appear on its own or together with neurological symptoms.

Neurological FIP, on the other hand, is a type of FIP that attacks the central nervous system. This makes it difficult or even impossible for the cat to control its body movements.

Besides disrupting the central nervous system, cats with neurological FIP may also experience damage to other internal organs such as the heart, kidneys, and liver. 

Differences in Symptoms of Ocular FIP and Neurological FIP

Ocular FIP and neurological FIP show significantly different symptoms. Let’s explore the details!

1. Symptoms of Ocular FIP

Cats with ocular FIP commonly show the following clinical symptoms.

• Uveitis, which is inflammation of the middle layer of the eye.

• Iris color appears cloudy, faded, or covered with a white haze.

• Anisocoria, a condition where the pupils of the right and left eyes are different in size.

• Hyphema, redness in the eye caused by blood pooling between the cornea and iris.

• Vision problems, indicated by the cat frequently bumping into objects or not responding to movement.

2. Symptoms of Neurological FIP

Cats with neurological FIP typically exhibit these clinical symptoms.

• Seizures, unexplained head tilt, and constant trembling.

• Ataxia, a condition causing difficulty in controlling body movements.

• The cat often “hurts itself” by banging its body against surrounding objects.

• Loss of body reflexes.

• Walking as if intoxicated.

• Legs moving involuntarily as if running while the cat remains still.

• Nystagmus, a condition where the eyeballs move repetitively and uncontrollably.
  

Differences in Diagnosing Ocular FIP and Neurological FIP

To confirm whether a cat is infected with ocular or neurological FIP, a series of tests must be performed first. Curious? Here’s the explanation!

1. How Ocular FIP is Diagnosed

After observing symptoms, these tests help diagnose ocular FIP in cats.

• Ophthalmological examination to check for inflammation in the eyes.

• Complete blood test to assess immune response and other signs of infection.

• Additional tests such as FCoV antibody testing, PCR, and body fluid analysis if necessary.

2. How Neurological FIP is Diagnosed

After observing symptoms, these tests help diagnose neurological FIP in cats.

• Thorough neurological examination to determine the extent of nerve damage caused by the virus.

• Elimination of other diseases such as epilepsy and head trauma to confirm symptoms are due to FIP.

• Complete blood test to check immune response and infection markers.

• MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) to monitor the condition of the brain and nervous system.
  

Treatment of Ocular FIP and Neurological FIP

Basically, treatment with GS-441524 remains the best recommended option. Besides its success rate of up to 89%, owners can closely monitor and be directly involved in their cat’s healing process.

However, considering ocular and neurological FIP are complex forms, infected cats usually require higher doses than usual.

To ensure the dosage is accurate, before administering GS-441524 to your beloved cat, make sure you consult with the Cure FIP GCC Team via WhatsApp!

As additional information, according to doctors’ advice, cats diagnosed with ocular FIP can be given anti-inflammatory eye drops regularly to reduce inflammation symptoms.

Meanwhile, some vets usually recommend that cats with neurological FIP receive intensive care at clinics or animal hospitals. This allows vets to closely monitor the cat’s condition.

Final Thought

Although different, ocular FIP and neurological FIP both require proper and prompt treatment.

Therefore, if you worry your beloved cat might be infected with FIP, don’t hesitate to contact the Cure FIP GCC Team via WhatsApp!