Feline Infectious Peritonitis (FIP)

 Feline Infectious Peritonitis (FIP) is a disease caused by a mutation of the common feline coronavirus (FCoV). Coronavirus infection is widespread in cats worldwide, and in most cases causes either no signs of illness or only mild, self-limiting digestive upset. 

While any cat can develop FIP, some pedigree breeds, including the Devon Rex, appear to have a higher predisposition. In a small percentage of cats, the normally harmless coronavirus mutates within the body, allowing it to spread beyond the intestines and trigger FIP. The exact reasons this mutation occurs are still not fully understood, although factors such as age, immune status, genetics, and environmental stress are believed to play a role. 

Perhaps the most encouraging development in recent years is that FIP is no longer considered the devastating diagnosis it once was. Modern antiviral treatments have achieved excellent success rates, allowing many affected cats to recover and go on to live normal, healthy lives.

At Highglow, we believe that minimising stress, maintaining excellent husbandry practices, and breeding for robust health and temperament all contribute to supporting a strong immune system and overall wellbeing.

Like all pedigree breeds, the Devon Rex developed from a relatively small foundation population, which unfortunately allowed some inherited conditions to become established within the breed.

Historically, the most significant genetic disorder in the Devon Rex was Devon Rex Myopathy, also known as Congenital Myasthenic Syndrome (CMS) or Spasticity. This condition causes muscle weakness and can also occur in Sphynx cats due to the historical use of Devon Rex cats in Sphynx breeding programs. 

The good news is that responsible breeding, combined with the development of a reliable DNA test for the causative COLQ gene mutation, has made this condition largely preventable. Breeders can now identify carriers and make informed breeding decisions to ensure affected kittens are not produced. 

Today, Devon Rex Myopathy is no longer considered a major concern in New Zealand. Through continued DNA testing of both local and imported breeding cats, responsible breeders are ensuring this once-significant disorder becomes increasingly rare within the breed.