What is the mortality rate of feline infectious peritonitis (FIP)?

Feline Infectious Peritonitis (FIP) is a severe, often fatal viral disease caused by certain strains of the feline coronavirus. The disease is characterized by a range of clinical presentations, but it is known for its high mortality rate. When clinical signs of FIP develop, the prognosis is generally poor, with mortality rates approaching nearly 100 percent.

The rationale for this high mortality rate stems from several aspects of the disease. FIP results in a severe immune-mediated response that leads to significant organ damage, particularly affecting the liver, kidneys, and central nervous system. Once diagnosed, the disease typically progresses rapidly despite any supportive treatment measures, which further contributes to the high risk of death within a matter of weeks to months.

In contrast, the other options suggest a much lower mortality rate, which does not accurately reflect the clinical reality of FIP once it presents clinically. Lower rates do not capture the fact that most cats diagnosed with FIP do not survive, emphasizing the importance of recognizing and understanding this disease in veterinary practice.