Cat Owner's Manual › Chapter 9: Emergency Care For Your Cat › Contagious Diseases in Cats ›

Contagious Diseases in Cats: Infectious Peritonitis

Vaccines are available for many of these disorders and should be administered on whatever schedule your veterinarian recommends, based on your cat's potential for exposure. In the case of diseases for which there is no cure, the best approach is to make sure your cat remains indoors, away from potentially infected animals. Be aware that indoor cats are not exempt from vaccinations. Dangerous diseases can be conveyed to them by their owners or during an unauthorized outdoor excursion.

For quick reference, disorders are flagged with a cross (disorders) to indicate that immediate veterinary attention is required. A skull (lethal disorders) designates potentially lethal disorders.

disorderlethal disorderFeline Infectious Peritonitis: This always deadly disorder is of particular concern in multi-cat settings, because it is transmitted by physical contact with infected cats or with their food bowls or bedding. The ailment is caused by a strain of coronavirus, other types of which are responsible for much milder disorders in kittens. Unfortunately, testing cannot determine if a cat is infected with a mild coronavirus or the deadly form. While many cats exposed to the virus never develop the disease, they may become carriers. The disorder also impersonates other ailments, ranging from cancer to heart disease to brain disease. Vaccines exist, but are of questionable value. The most effective approach is to keep one's cat away from unknown multi-feline environments. Consult your veterinarian.

Comments (0)

Chapter 9: Emergency Care For Your Cat

Post a Comment for This Page

Please log in or register to post a comment.

Email
Password:

Quirk BooksThe Cat Owner's Manual is a basic guide to cat care.
The book was written by a celebrated veterinarian and an acclaimed author. It provides cat owners with well-researched and helpful information presented in a lighthearted manner. The creators chose to write the book in a style similar to what you'd find in "operating instructions" for a car or computer. Of course they--and we--respect the fact that our beloved pets are not products or machines!