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Feline Infectious Peritonitis
A potentially fatal disease caused by mutation of feline coronavirus (FCoV) within an infected cat. Previously almost always fatal, but new antiviral treatments (GS-441524, remdesivir) have dramatically improved survival rates.
Key Facts
- Caused by mutation of common feline coronavirus — most cats with FCoV never develop FIP
- FIP virus itself is NOT easily contagious between cats (unlike the parent coronavirus)
- Two forms: wet/effusive (fluid accumulation in abdomen/chest) and dry (granulomatous masses)
- Signs: lethargy, fever, weight loss, poor appetite, enlarged belly, breathing difficulty, jaundice
- Neurological signs (seizures, wobbliness) and blindness possible
- Most common in young cats but can affect any age
- Diagnosis is difficult — no single confirmatory test; requires multiple tests combined
- GS-441524 antiviral treatment: very effective; available through compounding pharmacies
- Remdesivir: metabolized to GS-441524 in cats; also effective
- FDA not enforcing approval requirements for GS-441524 when prescribed by veterinarian
- Treatment can be expensive; duration typically 84 days
- Without antiviral treatment, most cats die within days to weeks