Epidemiology and Risk Factor Analysis of Feline Infectious Peritonitis in Sub-Himalayan Kashmir valley of India

Abstract

Feline infectious peritonitis (FIP) is a coronaviral disease of cats with diverse forms and a global presence. However, areas with an increasing trend in feline pet ownership face problems arising from inadequate epidemiological data and diagnostic difficulties. Hence, this study evaluated the epidemiological aspects of FIP in Kashmir, India, involving 1,157 cats, of which 67 were confirmed FIP-positive, yielding an overall prevalence of 5.8%. The highest prevalence was noted in summer (10.6%), followed by winter (6.2%), autumn (3.5%), and spring (2.4%). Persian cats showed a higher prevalence (67.2%) than nondescript cats (32.8%). Cats under 1 year of age were more affected (37.3%) than cats above 2 years of age (32.9%), followed by cats aged 1-2 years (29.8%). Male cats were more affected (55.2%) than female cats (44.8%). Unvaccinated cats had a higher prevalence (62.7%) than vaccinated cats (37.3%). Multi-cat households were more affected (62.7%) than single-cat households (37.3%). Domestic cats were more commonly positive (79.1%) than wild/stray cats (20.9%). Most cases were chronic (58.2%) rather than acute (41.8%). This study establishes the occurrence of FIP in cats in Kashmir and envisages the implementation of prophylactic and therapeutic measures. This article discusses the seasonal, breed, demographic, and management-related risk factors associated with FIP and their diagnostic and prophylactic implications for veterinary practitioners in similar sub-Himalayan settings.