Fighting FIP, A global effort (advertorial)

Feline Infectious Peritonitis (FIP) is a fatal disease affecting cats, particularly those that are young or immunocompromised, caused by a mutated feline coronavirus. Previously considered untreatable, FIP’s prognosis has dramatically improved with the introduction of effective, legally approved treatments. Bova, a leader in veterinary compounding, has been key in this breakthrough, providing quality-assured antiviral medications like remdesivir, GS-441524, and EIDD-1931 for off label use in animals. These treatments, unlike unregulated alternatives, meet high safety standards and offer veterinarians reliable solutions.

Bova's work has not only advanced treatment but also enhanced the veterinary community’s understanding of FIP. Their ethical approach to drug development, commitment to transparency, and collaboration with researchers have set new standards and fostered trust within the industry. By focusing on quality, legality, and accessibility, Bova has given hope to veterinarians and caregivers, changing the outlook on FIP care globally.

What did the experts say?

We asked global feline specialists key questions about FIP, covering advancements in treatments, early diagnosis, and collaborative care.

Q1: What would you say to a veterinary colleague who is feeling overwhelmed by FIP cases in their practice?

"This is new and represents a huge paradigm shift. The good news is that there is also an explosion of resources and guidance and research happening in this field. The new drugs are remarkably effective - treating FIP with antivirals is not rocket science. In most cases, this disease is more manageable than diabetes, for example. You can do it! There are lots of DVMs and reputable organizations here to help."

Dr Samantha Evans (USA) DVM, PhD, DACVP

Q2: What three key insights have you gained from your FIP experience and studies you have undertaken or participated in?

Hope for Severe Cases – Even critically ill cats can recover with treatment. In an Australian study, 3 out of 5 moribund cats treated with IV remdesivir fully recovered within days.

Accurate Diagnosis Matters – FIP mimics other diseases, so a thorough diagnostic workup is crucial. While antivirals can be started in highly suspected cases, cautious use preserves drug efficacy.

Ongoing Discoveries – FIP remains complex, and while antivirals have transformed outcomes, much is still unknown. Future research may reshape our understanding and treatment of the disease.

Dr Sally Coggins (AU) BVSc (Hons I) MANZCVS (Feline Medicine),

Q3: What is the main advice you would offer to a vet with a possible FIP case presented to them?

“To think of the diagnosis like a puzzle, and 'pieces' such as signalment, history, clinical examination findings and blood results are important to allow you to see the picture of an FIP diagnosis. One of the most important 'pieces' is finding an effusion, even in a cat presenting with neurological or ocular signs, so use point-of-care ultrasound to look for the fluid!”

Dr Samantha Taylor (UK) BVetMed(Hons) CertSAM DipECVIM‑CA MANZCVS FRCVS.

Supporting Vets and Caregivers

Bova equips vets and caregivers with quality treatments and vital resources, including a comprehensive FIP webpage and a dedicated advice line. Their commitment ensures better care and improved outcomes for cats with FIP.

References:

Taylor SS, Coggins S, Barker EN, Gunn-Moore D, Jeevaratnam K, Norris JM, Hughes D, Stacey E, MacFarlane L, O’Brien C, Korman R, McLauchlan G, Salord Torres X, Taylor A, Bongers J, Espada Castro L, Foreman M, McMurrough J, Thomas B, Royaux E, Calvo Saiz I, Bertoldi G, Harlos C, Work M, Prior C, Sorrell S, Malik R, Tasker S. Retrospective study and outcome of 307 cats with feline infectious peritonitis treated with legally sourced veterinary compounded preparations of remdesivir and GS-441524 (2020-2022). J Feline Med Surg. 2023 Sep;25(9)