UK records first case of deadly cat virus, FIP, following Cyprus outbreak
A lethal virus, feline infectious peritonitis (FIP), responsible for thousands of cat deaths in Cyprus, has now appeared in the UK. Recent reports attribute up to 300,000 cat fatalities this year in Cyprus to FIP, a mutation of the feline coronavirus (FCoV).
Dr. Jo Lewis, a feline veterinary surgeon, highlighted to Sky News that the virus spreads rapidly in densely populated cat environments, like rescue centers. She also noted that FIP transmission could occur via human interaction, including through items like grooming brushes and litter scoops.
UK veterinarians have confirmed the country's first known FIP case. Professor Danielle Gunn-Moore from Edinburgh University warns that this strain, F-CoV-23, is particularly virulent, infecting all cells instead of localizing. Contrary to usual FCoV behavior, where FIP develops due to individual cat mutations, F-CoV-23 is directly transmittable between cats.
Professor Gunn-Moore advises cat owners to be vigilant for symptoms like distended bellies, breathing difficulties, lack of appetite, and neurological issues, including wobbliness and seizures. This caution is especially pertinent for those who have adopted cats from Cyprus or live near shelters housing such rescues.
FIP in cats can be treated with two Covid-19 antivirals, which have proven effective against this strain.
