Companion Animals

Cat Feline Infectious Peritonitis Treatment

Feline infectious peritonitis was once universally fatal but new antiviral treatments have transformed outcomes for affected cats.

Key Facts

FIP is caused by a mutated form of feline coronavirus
Wet FIP causes fluid accumulation in the abdomen or chest; dry FIP affects organs
Before antivirals, FIP had a near 100 percent fatality rate
GS-441524 and related antivirals achieve remission in over 80 percent of cases
Treatment courses last a minimum of 12 weeks and require careful monitoring

Welfare Considerations

Untreated FIP causes progressive suffering through fluid accumulation, organ failure, and neurological symptoms. Access to effective antiviral treatment can give previously condemned cats a good quality of life.

What You Can Do

Advocate for affordable access to FIP antivirals through licensing and generic production
Microchip and vaccinate cats to reduce exposure to feline coronavirus
Support FIP research and advocacy groups working to improve treatment access