FIP risk factors in kittens and multi-cat homes

Exposure and disease are not the same

FIP is reported more often in younger cats, while multi-cat homes, shelters and breeding environments can increase feline coronavirus exposure. Age, breed or environment alone cannot predict which cat will develop FIP.

Practical risk reduction

• Avoid overcrowding and maintain stable small groups
• Keep litter areas clean and separate them from food
• Assess the health of newly arriving cats
• Reduce stress around transport, boarding and procedures
• Track weight, appetite and persistent fever early

Limits of screening healthy cats

Antibody tests and faecal PCR can provide information about exposure or shedding, but a single result cannot predict future FIP. Discuss the purpose and consequence of testing with a veterinarian first.