
Firstly, let me begin by stating that I
have no academic veterinary qualifications, and that expressions
stated here are purely my own opinion.
They have been gained from reading many
differing publications on the subject and listening to far
more learned people than myself.
For expert information, can I suggest that
you take a look at the excellent sites linked at the bottom of
this page.
Here at Fergan we have very strong
feelings regarding FIP. Our cats are tested on a regular basis
and have always had 0 titre results. Any
new cat coming into our household is tested and must be 0
titre, we also only use 0 titre studs. We
feel by keeping this high standard the chances of bringing this
dreaded fatal disease into our household is
greatly reduced.
We are lucky that we live on the
doorstep of University Of Glasgow Veterinary School where Dr
Diane Addie PhD BVMS ALCM MRCVS is
currently carrying out research on this disease and is
Britain's expert.. It is absolutely
crucial to use a reputable antibody test. The gold standard, not only
in the UK but across the world, is the
immuno fluorescent antibody test, this is the type Glasgow uses.
As the virus is very contagious,
uninfected cats become infected by sharing litter trays, food/water
bowls and possibly by inhaling sneezed
droplets. It is crucial that an FIP test be asked for before
accepting a queen for stud or choosing a
stud for your queen. Stud work is one of the high risk areas.
When buying new cats/kittens they should also be tested before introducing them to your household.
For further information and reading we
would refer you to an excellent booklet produced by
Cats
Protection.
All our Cats are also FeLV & FIV Neg and all our Cats & Kittens are vaccinated against Leukaemia.
