Mark Terry
Feline infectious peritonitis (FIP) is a viral disease caused by a feline coronavirus. It affects both wild and domestic cats, particularly those in crowded environments. FIP has two forms: dry and wet. The dry form of FIP may cause loss of appetite, weight loss, depression, and fever. The wet form of FIP causes fluid to accumulate in the abdomen or chest, leading to a pot-bellied appearance and potentially interfering with a cat's breathing. While there is no cure for FIP, natural remedies can help to strengthen the immune system, support the liver, and fight infection. These include turmeric, colloidal silver, vitamin D, and cod liver oil.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Natural remedies | Turmeric, colloidal silver, vitamin D, cod liver oil, dandelion root tincture, liquid chlorophyll, apple cider vinegar, cold-pressed coconut oil |
| How to administer | Turmeric and coconut oil can be mixed with food; colloidal silver can be given with a syringe; liquid chlorophyll can be added to food or water |
| Aim of treatment | Strengthen the immune system, support the liver, and fight infection |
Turmeric
In addition to internal consumption, turmeric can also be used topically to treat cats with FIP. A paste made from turmeric powder and water can be applied directly to the skin to soothe skin irritations and promote healing. It can also be added to a cat's bath water to reduce skin inflammation and provide a relaxing experience.
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Colloidal silver
- Ringworm
- Mange
- Fungal infections
- Hotspots
- Eye infections
- Ear infections
- Gastrointestinal infections
- Respiratory infections
- Urinary tract infections
- Gum disease
- Tooth decay
- Bad breath
- Open cuts or sores
- Burns
- Internal bleeding
The important thing to note about colloidal silver is that silver has been used for thousands of years to heal people and build up the immune system. It was very popular until antibiotics came along. As you can imagine, pharmaceutical companies would prefer you buy their products instead of using something that has been used successfully and safely for thousands of years that they can’t patent or make millions of dollars from.
A big problem with antibiotics, though, is that the overuse of them has created superbugs that are antibiotic-resistant. Luckily, that can’t happen with colloidal silver and there are plenty of reports from users that claim they used it to cure things when antibiotics couldn’t.
In 1999, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued a final rule establishing that "all over-the-counter (OTC) drug products containing colloidal silver ingredients or silver salts for internal or external use are not generally recognized as safe and effective and are misbranded." Despite this ruling being decades old, little research exists regarding the effects of colloidal silver in veterinary target species. As such, veterinarians must rely on information derived from cell cultures, rodents, and humans, which still paints an incomplete picture.
As indicated in the 1999 ruling from the FDA, many products sold and marketed as colloidal silver do not constitute true colloids. The amount of silver in these preparations may vary widely, from undetectable amounts to dangerous levels. Some may harbor "significant amounts of silver ions and silver salts," which organs absorb far more readily.
As indicated by the FDA, these inconsistencies "highlight the existing problems in trying to establish whether any silver salts or colloidal silver ingredients can be generally recognized as safe and effective. Due to the acknowledged differences in silver content and particle size of the silver in various products, it is difficult to draw conclusions from clinical studies conducted on different silver products. The agency [FDA] has minimal manufacturing controls on information on these products. The agency does not have information that assures the strength, quality, purity, and potency of various silver products used in clinical studies and other reports…"
A 2020 report in the International Journal of Nanomedicine confirms unreliable product quality persists. Researchers tested 14 of the most popular colloidal silver products sold on and purchased from Amazon.com. They evaluated samples with state-of-the-art analytic techniques widely accepted as ideal for investigating the properties and dispersion of silver nanoparticles in a solution.
Results indicated that 70 percent of the commercial products contained only ionic, not colloidal, silver. Over half contained no nanoparticles whatsoever. In their conclusion, the authors noted, "Considering the extensive scientific research showing major differences between silver ionic and silver nanoparticles in terms of mechanisms of action, efficacy, and safety, it is clear that misrepresentation impacts the consumer and must be addressed." Silver nanoparticles cross the blood-brain barrier and accumulate in the brain over time, regardless of the route of exposure. When they reach neuronal and glial cells, they can cause oxidative stress-related cell death.
Silver nanoparticles released into sewage lines, wastewater treatment facilities, and rivers, streams, and lakes, "destroy the benign species of bacteria that are used for wastewater treatment. It basically halts the reproduction activity of the good bacteria."
If colloidal silver destroys beneficial bacteria in wastewater treatment facilities, what does it do to the gut microbiome?
While soluble silver
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Coconut oil
Benefits of Coconut Oil for Cats
- Supports Skin and Coat Health
- Prevents Hairballs
- Aids Digestion
The medium-chain fatty acids (MCFAs) in coconut oil are easily digestible and help the body to absorb nutrients and vitamins from food. It also has natural anti-inflammatory properties that support digestive health, and can help reduce inflammation or irritation in the gut.
- Boosts the Immune System
- Great for Senior Cats
Concerns and Risks of Coconut Oil for Cats
Weight Gain
GI Upset
Diarrhea and other signs of digestive upset are possible when a cat consumes coconut oil.
Poor Appetite
Some cats do not like the taste of coconut oil, so adding it to their food may cause them to eat less.
Greasy Coat
Applying coconut oil to a cat's skin and coat can make it greasy.
It is important to always give the smallest amount of coconut oil that will provide the intended benefit, and to purchase coconut oil from reputable sources to avoid unwanted additives. It is also recommended to talk to your veterinarian before giving your cat coconut oil or any new nutritional supplement.
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Cod liver oil
Feline infectious peritonitis (FIP) is a viral disease caused by certain strains of the feline coronavirus. While there have been significant developments in treatment in recent years, it is still a complex disease to diagnose.
Benefits of Cod Liver Oil for Cats
- Support skin health by reducing inflammation and moisturising the skin.
- Promote hair growth by supporting collagen production.
- Strengthen the skin barrier by increasing the production of ceramides, protecting against infection and environmental damage.
- Improve coat health by reducing shedding and enhancing its overall appearance.
- Support heart health.
- Relieve dry, flaky, allergy-prone skin.
- Slow the progression of kidney disease.
- Ease pain in arthritic joints.
- Improve cognitive function.
- Lower blood triglycerides.
- Decrease chronic inflammation.
Forms of Cod Liver Oil Supplements for Cats
- Liquid.
- Soft gels or capsules.
- Chewables or treats.
- Pills or tablets.
Considerations when Choosing Cod Liver Oil for Cats
When choosing a cod liver oil supplement for your cat, consider the following:
- Purity and quality: Ensure the product is free of contaminants like heavy metals, PCBs, and other toxins. Look for molecularly distilled products or those with a certificate of analysis indicating purity.
- Formulation: Choose a form that your cat is most likely to take, such as liquids that can be added to food or treats.
- Packaging: Fish oil can turn rancid when exposed to light, heat, or air, so opt for dark bottles or opaque packaging to maintain freshness.
- Vitamin content: Cod liver oil may contain high levels of vitamins A and D, which can be toxic to cats, especially kittens, if consumed in large amounts. Therefore, it is generally recommended to avoid cod liver oil and opt for fish oils from smaller fish, such as salmon, sardines, or anchovies.
While cod liver oil can provide various health benefits for cats, it is important to consult your veterinarian before adding any supplements to your cat's diet to ensure they are getting the right balance of nutrients for their unique needs.
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Dandelion root tincture
Dandelion root is a natural remedy that can support several of your cat's essential systems, including the liver, digestion, cardiovascular system, blood sugar, and immunity.
Liver
The liver is a multi-purpose organ that is essential to your cat's health. It can be negatively impacted by a compromised digestive system, leading to a build-up of dangerous toxins in your cat's body. Dandelion root promotes normal bile production in the liver, which is important for sluggish digestion and gas. It also supports healthy liver enzymes that are needed for metabolism and the excretion of medications and other substances.
Digestive System
Dandelion root can support normal bile flow during digestion, helping with the breakdown and assimilation of foods. It also supports the production of liver enzymes that metabolise toxins in the body so they can be flushed out through the excretory system. Additionally, it provides a high percentage of inulin, a prebiotic that helps maintain healthy flora, which is important for good digestion and a healthy immune system.
Heart
Dandelion root helps maintain normal blood pressure and good circulation. It is also high in several minerals that contribute to a good electrolyte balance. A well-functioning liver is also important for cats with heart conditions.
Blood Sugar
Dandelion root has been studied for its ability to support normal, healthy insulin levels. Adding it to your cat's health regime can help maintain stable blood sugar levels.
Dosage
Administer Dandelion Root once daily. For cats under 30 lbs, give one drop per 1 lb (0.5 kg) of body weight. Shake well before use. It does not require refrigeration. The best way to give drops is to add them to a small portion of your cat's favourite food or treat and ensure the entire amount is consumed.
Precautions
- Do not use if gallstones are present or with gallbladder inflammation.
- Do not use with intestinal or bile duct obstruction.
- An examination from a veterinarian is recommended before use.
- Not for human consumption.
- Keep out of reach of children and animals.
- In case of accidental overdose, contact a health professional immediately.
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Frequently asked questions
Feline infectious peritonitis (FIP) is a viral disease caused by a feline coronavirus that affects wild and domestic cats.
Early signs of FIP include a fluctuating fever, lethargy, and reduced appetite. Other symptoms include neurological issues like seizures and loss of coordination, as well as vomiting, weight loss, and jaundice.
Infection occurs when a healthy cat comes into oral contact with the faeces of an infected cat.
FIP is challenging to diagnose as its symptoms overlap with other cat diseases. There is no single blood test available. X-rays can detect fluid in the abdomen, which can be analysed for FIP, but it's not always conclusive.
While FIP has long been considered untreatable and almost always fatal, antiviral drugs have recently been introduced to treat the disease. Thousands of cats have been cured over the last few years.
