A diagnosis of FIP used to mean a sure death for cat or kitten, but in the last few years, all that has changed – Thank goodness!
Up until as recently as 2017, a diagnosis of FIP (Feline Infectious Peritonitis) for a cat or kitten was an automatic death sentence because there was no cure or even any treatment. However, after years of research, there is now a treatment – and a cure – for FIP. So, if your cat or kitten receives this diagnosis, there is hope, and you need to get started now! The hero of this cure is Dr. Niels Pedersen who has been researching this disease since the 1960’s.
NOTE: FIP should not be confused with FIV (Feline Immunodeficiency Virus).
Unfortunately, there is no test to definitively say, “This cat has FIP,” so it’s usually a diagnosis of exclusion. However, time can be critical, so waiting too long to get an absolute diagnosis can be a death sentence. Not every vet is knowledgeable about FIP, and many may have never seen it or diagnosed it. Many emergency clinics spend lots of time trying to find an explanation for symptoms they can’t explain or diagnose when FIP should be considered.
There are four types: wet, dry, ocular, and neurological. All have different symptoms. The good thing is that the meds are safe, and you can start them even before you get that definitive diagnosis. If your kitty responds, you know it’s FIP.
Be aware that many vets do not know about this treatment, or do not support it, so if you get a diagnosis, it is imperative you find a vet in your area who is familiar with the treatment and will work with you. If you are a former adopter of Purr Partners Feline Rescue and in our area – Raleigh/Wake Forest/Durham/Franklin County – then we can recommend a vet for you who we know is supportive of the treatment and will help you through it.
If you receive this diagnosis, or if your vet is considering it, please go and join the Facebook group, FIP Global Cats. (NOTE: This is the newest name for the Facebook group formerly known as FIP Warriors). Joining this particular group is imperative, and speed is essential. Explain your situation, and an admin will be assigned to you. They can help educate you and answer questions for you. It’s a wonderful and supportive group. Your vet can order the meds for you through an online pharmacy, and you should get started immediately. If your vet is unfamiliar with FIP, or reluctant to treat, find a vet that can help. The FIP Global Cats group can help with that.
If you adopted a kitty from Purr Partners Feline Rescue that has been diagnosed with FIP, and you have any additional questions or need information about local veterinarians that support this course of treatment, please contact us ASAP at PurrPartners@yahoo.com!
Visit these resources for more information about FIP:
(Updated Aug 6 2025)