Feline infectious peritonitis (FIP) is a viral infection found in cats. FIP attacks the cells of the intestinal wall, causing a significant inflammatory response. Natural remedies focus on strengthening the immune system, supporting the liver, and fighting infection. Home treatments can include turmeric, colloidal silver, and vitamin D.
Initial symptoms of FIP include sneezing, watery eyes, nasal discharge, and sometimes diarrhea. As the disease progresses a cat may lose weight, become depressed and have a rough coat.. FIP has two forms: “dry” and “wet." The dry form is more common and exhibits the symptoms above, but the wet form has a faster onset and is characterized by an accumulation of fluid in the abdomen. The fluid may cause a potbellied appearance and can interfere with your cat's breathing over time.
Turmeric
Turmeric is a powerful anti-inflammatory herb. It can be mixed with your cat’s food. 1/16 to 1/8 of a teaspoon can be given twice daily.
Colloidal Silver
Colloidal silver fights viruses and secondary infections. (A sick cat is at risk for getting other infections.) Because it is tasteless, it is usually easy to give a cat colloidal silver. 5 ml can be given with a syringe twice a day.
Coconut Oil
Cold pressed coconut oil can be useful for autoimmune diseases. (FIP is an autoimmune disease.) 1/4 teaspoon can be mixed into your cat’s food twice a day.
Cod Liver Oil
A dietary supplement of cod liver oil will give your cat important nutrients, like Vitamin D, which is critical to the immune system.
Dandelion Root Tincture
Dandelion root supports the liver and supplies iron.2-3 drops of the tincture can be added to your cat's food, twice a day.
Liquid Chlorophyll
Liquid chlorophyll is a dietary supplement that purifies the blood and helps boost iron levels. 10 drops of liquid chlorophyll can be added to a cat’s food or water. (It will turn the water green, however!)
Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar makes an excellent daily tonic for cats. In addition to supporting good health, it helps to keep your cat flea free. This video will show you an easy and gentle way to give a daily dose of apple cider vinegar to your cat.
Dietary Changes
Higher quality food will provide your cat with more nutrients than cheap cat food. Wet cat food helps to ensure that your cat is properly hydrated.
Have you found a natural remedy that is helpful to cats with FIP? Please send us some feedback! Continue reading to learn what natural remedies our readers have used for FIP.