Unfortunately, Tommy isn't out of the woods yet.
Unfortunately, Tommy isn't out of the woods yet. His eye is 100% clear, but he is still showing and battling a few other Fip symptoms. He has lost a pound in one month due to lack of appetite. He's never been a big eater and is the smallest of all my cats. When he first got sick, he weighed 9.75 pounds. Tommy is now 8.45 pounds. That is still an okay weight for a cat. 8-12 pounds is normal with some smaller breeds coming in at around 5 pounds. I'll weigh him weekly from now on. I went to the store yesterday and shopped specifically for food for him. I spent over $25 on gravy-based and soft chicken cat foods, soups, and bisques. He doesn't like fish and he refuses pate. He will lick gravies and soups - anything liquid. He WILL eat grilled chicken. I found that out when Salem stole the chicken for my salad two days ago!!! So, if all else fails, I'll just bite the bullet and buy him grilled chicken from Grant's. He has also developed a slight leg tremor, which is still something that is common in Fip cats. I didn't see it yesterday - Thank God! However, it was noticeable the evening before. If he is laying down, you can see his one little leg tremor. Not constantly. If you didn't know better, you'd think that he is having a little nightmare. I first noticed it over the weekend because it's so slight. However, David said he's been doing it for a few weeks. So, I'll keep an eye on that leg. Where he didn't do it at all (that I could tell... I worked in the central office yesterday and wasn't home for a majority of the work day), that is a good sign. With Fip, he must take meds for 84 days. He's 3 1/2 weeks in. So, there's still a long road to travel. Even after the 84 days, there is a 30-day observation period. Some cats rebound. If a cat doesn't rebound within those 30 days, they are then considered cured. Keep Tommy in your thoughts and prayers.
Feline Infectious Peritonitis (FIP) is a serious viral disease affecting cats, caused by a mutation of the feline coronavirus. It's crucial to understand that cats like Tommy often require specific dietary management to maintain their health during treatment. Signs of FIP may include appetite loss, weight changes, and neurological symptoms, making it essential for cat owners to monitor their pets closely. Tommy's current weight of 8.45 pounds, while still within a normal range, reflects the need for careful observation, especially since the average weight for cats typically falls between 8-12 pounds depending on breed. Dietary choices become crucial in stimulating his appetite, particularly when he shows preference for liquid foods over solid varieties. Gravy-based options and soft foods are often more appealing to cats with diminished appetite. Moreover, medication for FIP can last several weeks, and the possibility of recovery varies per individual case. After the initial treatment period, a 30-day observation period is also mandated, during which signs of recovery should be apparent. It's imperative for pet owners to remain vigilant and proactive, providing the right supportive care, while ensuring their cats are as comfortable as possible. Always consult with a veterinarian for tailored advice regarding your cat's specific needs during this challenging journey.