Feline infectious peritonitis was once invariably fatal, but new antiviral treatments have transformed outcomes and welfare management for affected cats.
FIP previously caused prolonged suffering through progressive accumulation of fluid, organ failure, and neurological deterioration before death — often in young cats just entering adulthood. Antiviral treatment has transformed FIP from a death sentence to a manageable condition with good remission prospects. Access to treatment remains a welfare challenge due to cost and availability in some regions. Advocacy for regulatory approval of affordable generic antivirals is an important welfare priority for the cat-owning community.