Dead kitten

Question
In our household there is six adult cats; 2 male, 4 female; 4 kittens; 1-12year old chow; and three adults. I do not have enough money to get all of these cats fixed. It got out of hand really quickly.

About 3:30 a.m. a kitten started meowing very desperately. We found the kitten on the kitchen floor, she had shitted herself and the lower half of her body was laying spread out, like she had broken a hip or leg. We gently touched her hind legs and she didn't meow any louder. It was like she was paralyzed.

I went to the computer to find an emergency Vet. that was open at that time. Which took no longer than 5 minutes, I returned to the kitchen. The kitten wasn't there, following the meows we found her behind a couch in the front room. We got her out and laid her on the couch. I went to grab the address and keys, and my son went to get the pet carrier.

My son started yelling for me, the kitten was having seizures. Her body was having violent spasms, that seemed to twist her spine. This lasted no longer than 1 to 2 minutes; then she was dead. Approximately 30 to 40 minutes had passed from the first meow to her death.

I have done some research on the Internet; and have some questions.

   1.  From the way she died, I am thinking she had FIP; if this is correct are the other cats and the dog in danger of getting infected?

   2. If so; what should I do about that?

   3.  The research gave me the impression that there should be an autopsy. Should I take the dead kitten in for one?

   4.  If so; where do I take her?

In the meantime; I will still be doing research on the Internet to find answers.

Thank you; in advance for any help you give.

                 Marilyn Lucero

Answer
There are many things that can lead to seizures, including high fever, viral infections, toxin exposures, liver disease, underlying heart disease that lead to reduced oxygen levels to the brain, etc.  Usually FIP will cause the belly to be bloated with fluid in young kittens.  AND If you are concerned about FIP, then YES I would take her in for an autopsy to your local vet or veterinary school.

There is nothing you can really do to prevent FIP.  There is a vaccine but it really is not that great.  The feeling in the veterinary community now is that FIP is due to exposure to a corona virus that mutates.  I would NOT bring any more cats or kittens into the house for at least 6 months and disinfect all areas with a diluted bleach solution.