Feline Coronavirus / FIP (FCoV)
Feline coronavirus (FCoV) is a common, usually mild enteric infection; feline infectious peritonitis (FIP) is a rare but serious consequence that develops when the virus mutates within an individual cat. FCoV antigen testing supports identification of active shedding, but a positive FCoV test alone does not diagnose FIP. Point-of-care quantitative testing can measure viral shedding and support management in multi-cat environments.
Fact Table
| Species | Feline |
|---|---|
| Biomarkers | Feline Coronavirus (FCoV) |
| Tests |
Clinical Context
Feline coronavirus (FCoV) is a common, usually mild enteric infection; feline infectious peritonitis (FIP) is a rare but serious consequence that develops when the virus mutates within an individual cat. FCoV antigen testing supports identification of active shedding, but a positive FCoV test alone does not diagnose FIP. Point-of-care quantitative testing can measure viral shedding and support management in multi-cat environments.
Interpretation should combine the quantitative result with the patient's signalment, history, clinical signs, vaccination or treatment history where relevant, and any other laboratory findings. A single value is rarely diagnostic on its own; serial measurements often provide more useful information.
Related Biomarkers
Related Test Kits
Related Articles
- FIP in Cats: What a Coronavirus Test Can and Can't Say A positive feline coronavirus test is not FIP — most infected cats never develop it. Here's the titre trap and what actually diagnoses FIP.
- Cat Infectious Disease Testing: What One Panel Can Catch A guide to feline infectious disease testing: FPV, FHV-1, FCV, FCoV, FeLV and FIV — when to test and how to interpret results.
Clinical literature cited in related articles
2026-09-12
MEDIUM
FAQ
What is the relationship between FCoV and FIP?
Feline coronavirus (FCoV) is a common, usually mild enteric infection. Feline infectious peritonitis (FIP) develops when the virus mutates within an individual cat and spreads systemically. FCoV is common; FIP is a rare but serious consequence.
Does a positive FCoV test mean my cat has FIP?
No. Most cats with FCoV never develop FIP. A positive FCoV antigen test confirms coronavirus infection, but FIP diagnosis requires additional clinical, laboratory, and often effusion analysis. A positive FCoV test alone is not diagnostic of FIP.
How is FCoV detected?
FCoV is detected by antigen testing on rectal/fecal swabs, since the virus is shed in faeces. Quantitative testing measures viral load, which can help monitor shedding and support management in multi-cat environments.