ABSTRACT
Feline infectious peritonitis (FIP) was recognized as a new and emerging disease entity in the late 1950s [1]. It has been subsequently identied worldwide and in virtually all species of Felidae, with domestic cats being the major target host [2]. The disease occurs primarily in an enzootic form [2] and epizootics are noteworthy because of their rarity [3]. The incidence of FIP was reported at 1:300 cats seen in North American veterinary institutions [4] and from <1% to >5% of kittens and younger cats from shelters, catteries, and other such high-density environments [2]. Once clinical signs appear, the mortality is extremely high; and there is currently no effective way to prevent or treat the disease.
