Education Saves Lives

FIP Awareness

Feline Infectious Peritonitis (FIP) was once considered a death sentence for cats. Today, thanks to breakthrough treatments, FIP is no longer a guaranteed fatal diagnosis.

Important: FIP is now treatable

GS-441524 antiviral treatment has shown over 85% success rates in treating FIP. If your cat is diagnosed with FIP, please seek a veterinarian experienced with this treatment immediately. Early intervention is critical.

Understanding FIP

What You Need to Know

What is FIP?

Feline Infectious Peritonitis (FIP) is a fatal viral disease caused by a mutation of the feline coronavirus (FCoV). It primarily affects young cats under 2 years of age and cats with compromised immune systems.

How is it transmitted?

The feline coronavirus that can mutate into FIP is shed in feces and spread through shared litter boxes, food bowls, and grooming. However, FIP itself is not directly contagious — it requires the virus to mutate inside an individual cat.

Is there a cure?

There is now a treatment! GS-441524, an antiviral drug, has shown remarkable success rates in treating FIP. While not yet FDA-approved in the US, it is available through veterinary channels and has saved thousands of cats worldwide.

How can I help?

Awareness is key. Share information about FIP with fellow cat owners, support rescues that treat FIP-positive cats, and advocate for FDA approval of GS-441524 so more cats can access life-saving treatment.

Signs & Symptoms

FIP can present in two forms — wet (effusive) and dry (non-effusive). Common signs include:

  • Persistent fever that does not respond to antibiotics
  • Lethargy and loss of appetite
  • Weight loss and muscle wasting
  • Fluid accumulation in the abdomen (wet FIP) or chest
  • Neurological signs such as seizures or loss of coordination (dry FIP)
  • Eye inflammation or lesions
  • Jaundice (yellowing of skin, eyes, or gums)

If your cat shows any of these symptoms, contact your veterinarian immediately. Early diagnosis improves treatment outcomes.

Help Us Spread Awareness

FIP awareness saves lives. Share this page with fellow cat owners, support organizations treating FIP-positive cats, and help us advocate for better access to life-saving treatments.

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