FIP was once a fatal diagnosis for cats, but antiviral treatments have transformed it into a curable condition, representing one of the most significant recent advances in feline welfare.
The FIP treatment revolution represents one of the most profound welfare advances in recent feline medicine. FIP — caused by a mutation of feline coronavirus — causes peritonitis, fluid accumulation, and organ failure, historically meaning certain death for affected cats. The availability of GS-441524 and related antivirals transformed FIP from a death sentence to a curable disease in 85-90% of cases. Welfare implications are profound: thousands of cats per year who would have died are now surviving and returning to healthy lives. Early diagnosis and prompt treatment access are the primary welfare bottlenecks — raising awareness among cat owners and ensuring veterinary familiarity with current treatment protocols saves lives directly.