Feline Infectious Peritonitis: Welfare in the Era of Antiviral Treatment

FIP, once universally fatal in cats, is now treatable with antiviral drugs in many cases, transforming welfare outcomes for affected cats and their owners.

Key Facts

FIP is caused by a mutant form of feline coronavirus causing systemic immune-mediated disease
Until 2019, FIP was essentially 100% fatal with no effective treatment
GS-441524 and remdesivir-based antivirals achieve remission in over 85% of treated cases
Treatment requires 12 weeks of daily antiviral injections or oral medication
Cost of treatment can be substantial but generic versions are increasingly available

Welfare Considerations

FIP causes severe welfare impacts through fluid accumulation, neurological signs, eye disease, and progressive systemic illness. Before effective antivirals, affected cats faced certain death within weeks of diagnosis. Antiviral treatment now achieves remission in the majority of cats, dramatically transforming the welfare trajectory. The main welfare challenge currently is access to treatment: cost can be prohibitive and availability of licensed products varies by country. Advocacy for accessible treatment is now a welfare imperative.

What You Can Do

Seek specialist veterinary advice immediately if FIP is suspected in your cat
Contact FIP support organisations for guidance on accessing affordable antiviral treatment
Complete the full 12-week treatment course to prevent relapse
Monitor treated cats carefully for signs of relapse requiring retreatment
Support campaigns for licensed, affordable FIP antiviral access in all countries