Companion Animals

Cat Feline Infectious Peritonitis Welfare

Feline infectious peritonitis is a fatal coronavirus-caused disease in cats that now has an effective antiviral treatment transforming outcomes.

Key Facts

FIP is caused by a mutated form of feline enteric coronavirus
It was previously almost universally fatal in affected cats
Antiviral drugs including GS-441524 achieve remission in over 80 percent of cases
Treatment requires daily injections or oral medication for at least 12 weeks
The drugs are not yet approved in all countries but are widely available through licensed vets

Welfare Considerations

FIP causes wet or dry forms of the disease with effusions, weight loss, neurological signs, and ocular disease that are profoundly debilitating. The transformation in outcomes with antiviral therapy represents one of the most dramatic welfare improvements in feline medicine. Early diagnosis and rapid treatment initiation give the best outcomes.

What You Can Do

Seek specialist or telemedicine consultation if FIP is diagnosed in your cat
Pursue antiviral treatment as the standard of care for FIP
Monitor closely for relapse after completing the treatment course
Join FIP support communities for guidance from experienced owners
Advocate for regulatory approval of effective FIP antivirals in your country