Companion Cat: Feline Infectious Peritonitis Management

Feline infectious peritonitis, caused by a mutated coronavirus, was once uniformly fatal but new antiviral treatments are transforming welfare outcomes for affected cats.

Key Facts

FIP affects primarily young cats under 2 years and those from multi-cat environments
The disease results from mutation of ubiquitous feline enteric coronavirus to virulent form
Wet FIP causes fluid accumulation in body cavities; dry FIP causes granulomas in organs
New antiviral drugs including GS-441524 and molnupiravir achieve remission in over 80% of cases
Treatment requires 12 weeks of daily injections or oral medication
Access to effective treatment varies enormously by geography and cost

Welfare Considerations

FIP represents a remarkable welfare transformation story. Until recently, FIP diagnosis was a death sentence, with cats suffering progressive fluid accumulation, neurological signs, or organ failure over weeks. New antivirals have converted FIP from fatal to treatable in the majority of cases, but access barriers mean many cats still die preventably. Cost of treatment is prohibitive for many owners, and medication availability varies by country. Advocacy for affordable access to effective FIP antivirals is a direct animal welfare intervention with immediate, measurable impact on individual cat lives.

What You Can Do

Purchase pet insurance that covers emerging disease treatments including FIP antivirals
Support campaigns for regulatory approval and affordable access to FIP antivirals
Consult a feline specialist immediately if a young cat shows signs consistent with FIP
Donate to organisations providing financial assistance for FIP treatment
Reduce stress and overcrowding in multi-cat households to reduce coronavirus circulation