Can cats get covid? 5 Essential 2026 Facts
1. Understanding Feline Coronavirus and Its Impact on UK Cats
Feline coronavirus (FCoV) is widespread among cats in the UK, especially in multi-cat households, shelters, and catteries. Around 40-50% of individual cats carry the virus, with levels reaching up to 100% in crowded environments. This virus primarily infects the intestinal tract and often causes mild or no symptoms, so infections are frequently unnoticed. However, in a small percentage of cats—particularly young kittens under two years and certain pedigree breeds—the virus can mutate into feline infectious peritonitis (FIP), a serious and often fatal condition without treatment.
Pedigree cats such as Maine Coon kittens, British Shorthair, Ragdoll kittens, Bengal, and Birman are genetically more susceptible to developing FIP. For responsible UK cat owners and breeders, awareness of FCoV and its risks supports ethical care and breeding practices.
2. How Cats Contract FCoV and the New FCoV-23 Strain in the UK
The virus spreads mainly through the faecal–oral route, meaning cats pick it up from contact with contaminated faeces, often in shared litter trays, feeding bowls, or via grooming. FCoV can survive outside the host for several days to weeks, making cleanliness vital.
A newly identified strain, FCoV-23, has been detected in the UK since late 2023. Originating from cats imported from Cyprus, this variant spreads more easily in multi-cat environments like shelters and catteries. Its higher contagiousness demands enhanced biosecurity, strict quarantine of imported cats, and diligent monitoring to prevent outbreaks.
Effective prevention measures in the UK include separate feeding and toileting stations for each cat, daily litter tray cleaning (one tray per cat plus an extra), avoiding overcrowding, and quarantining new or sick cats. These steps reduce virus transmission and protect the wider cat population.
3. Recognising FIP Symptoms and Progression
While most cats with FCoV have mild or no illness, a small number develop FIP, which appears in two main forms:
- Wet (effusive) FIP: Characterised by rapid fluid accumulation in the abdomen or chest, accompanied by fever, lethargy, reduced appetite, and weight loss.
- Dry (noneffusive) FIP: More gradual with variable symptoms including neurological signs like changes in behaviour, eye inflammation, seizures, or coordination problems.
Symptoms develop over days to weeks, with kittens aged 4–12 months most vulnerable. Early veterinary examination is vital since prompt diagnosis and treatment greatly enhance recovery prospects.
4. Prevention and Vaccination Guidance in the UK
Vaccination for FIP exists but is rarely recommended in the UK due to its limited effectiveness and the fact many kittens are exposed to FCoV before vaccination is practical. Prevention focuses instead on good hygiene and management:
- Keep cat groups small—ideally fewer than five individuals—to reduce infection risk.
- Maintain dedicated litter trays for each cat, cleaned daily.
- Provide calm, enriched environments to minimise stress and support immunity.
- Screen and quarantine new or unwell cats before introduction to others.
- Acquire kittens from reputable breeders who follow ethical breeding and health testing.
Indoor breeds like the Ragdoll often experience less environmental stress, helping reduce infection risk. Regular disinfection with appropriate agents, such as bleach, is essential to control environmental contamination.
5. Advances in FIP Treatment Bring Hope
FIP was once considered almost invariably fatal, but since 2021, antiviral treatments such as remdesivir and GS-441524 have dramatically improved outcomes. These drugs are prescription-only in the UK and show over 85% effectiveness when administered early.
The recommended treatment course is around 12 weeks, with oral GS-441524 being the mainstay; injectable remdesivir is reserved for critical or non-oral cases. Supportive care—including pain relief and appetite stimulants—is essential to improve quality of life during treatment.
Research in 2025 also explores adjunct therapies like mesenchymal stromal cells (MSC) to aid immune recovery and reduce inflammation. Close veterinary monitoring is vital throughout treatment to address complications and prevent antiviral resistance.
Can Cats Pass Coronavirus to Humans?
Quick Answer: Feline coronavirus, including the FIP-causing virus, is species-specific and does not infect humans. While cats can sometimes contract SARS-CoV-2 from people, transmission back to humans is exceedingly rare. Responsible pet care, such as limiting contact when ill and maintaining regular vet visits, protects both cats and their owners.
How Quickly Do Symptoms of FIP Develop?
Quick Answer: Symptoms of FIP usually develop over days to weeks. Wet FIP often causes rapid fluid accumulation, whereas dry FIP progresses more slowly with neurological signs. Early diagnosis and treatment improve chances of recovery.
Are Vaccines Available for FIP in the UK?
Quick Answer: Although vaccines for FIP exist, they are rarely used in the UK due to variable efficacy and early exposure of kittens to the virus. Prevention mainly relies on hygiene and population management.
Are Certain Breeds More Prone to FIP?
Quick Answer: Breeds such as Burmese, Abyssinian, Bengal, British Shorthair, Ragdoll, and Maine Coon cats show higher risk of developing FIP. However, any cat can be affected. Genetics, stress, and environment all influence susceptibility. Responsible breeding reduces disease incidence.
Responsible Pet Care to Protect Your Cats
UK cat owners should prioritise excellent hygiene for litter and feeding areas, avoid overcrowding, and provide stress-free environments. Balanced nutrition and regular veterinary check-ups support long-term wellbeing. Selecting kittens from reputable breeders who practise ethical breeding helps ensure healthier cats and lower disease risks.