Feline Infectious Peritonitis (FIP) was previously considered almost universally fatal, but antiviral treatments including GS-441524 have transformed it into a manageable condition for many cats. Welfare considerations now focus on treatment access and quality of life during long-term management.
Cats with FIP before antiviral treatment faced rapid deterioration with fluid accumulation, neurological signs, and death. The availability of GS-441524 has transformed FIP from a palliative welfare scenario to a treatable condition. However, 12 weeks of daily injections causes repeated handling stress and injection site pain. Access to affordable treatment remains a welfare concern in countries where regulatory barriers prevent licensed products from reaching patients.