FIP Prognosis and Life Expectancy: Why There’s Still Hope for Recovery

Feline Infectious Peritonitis (FIP) has affected 1–2% of the global cat population. This deadly disease is caused by a mutation of the Feline Coronavirus (FCoV), which transforms into a more aggressive form.

When this virus first emerged and there was no available antiviral treatment, the death rate among cats was extremely high. 

That’s why it’s completely understandable if pet owners lose hope when their cats are diagnosed with FIP—no matter the type.

However, with advancements in veterinary medicine—especially the introduction of treatments like GS-441524 provided by Cure FIP—cats diagnosed with FIP now have a much better chance of survival.

Curious about the prognosis and life expectancy of cats living with FIP? Let Team Cure FIP Oceania walk you through everything you need to know!

What Prognosis Means for FIP Cats

FIP is a disease that can spread quickly throughout the body. Beyond that, the damage it causes can affect the eyes, heart, lungs, liver—even the kidneys.

That’s why pet parents are often desperate to understand the prognosis of a cat with FIP. In case you’re wondering, prognosis refers to a prediction of how your cat’s condition is likely to progress over time.

This doesn’t just mean the chances of recovery—it also includes the possibility of relapse. Because even after full recovery, a cat with a weak immune system can still become reinfected with FIP.

Factors That Affect Survival Chances

A cat’s survival rate depends mainly on two key factors: the speed of diagnosis and the type of treatment given. Want to know why? Here’s a quick breakdown.

1. Speed of Diagnosis

As mentioned earlier, a cat infected with FIP is essentially racing against time. This virus doesn’t just act fast—it spreads aggressively inside the body.

So the earlier the diagnosis, the higher the cat’s chances of surviving. Early detection means treatment can start before any serious organ damage occurs.

2. Type of Treatment Given

Without proper treatment, a cat suffering from FIP can die within days. In fact, statistics show that 96% of FIP-infected cats who don’t get the right treatment do not survive.

Fortunately, things have changed. Thanks to GS-441524—a scientifically proven antiviral drug that can stop virus replication—cats now have a much stronger chance of recovery.

Differences in Prognosis

There are four types of FIP: wet FIP, dry FIP, ocular FIP, and neurological FIP—and each one has a different prognosis.

Aside from the two main factors mentioned above, prognosis also depends on the complexity of the disease affecting the cat.

1. Wet FIP

Wet FIP is the easiest form to detect. This is because pet owners can quickly notice a swollen abdomen caused by fluid buildup in the cat’s body.

The speed at which the owner detects these symptoms allows for faster treatment. That’s why the recovery rate for wet FIP is relatively high.

2. Dry FIP

Unlike wet FIP, the symptoms of dry FIP are harder to detect. That’s because they often resemble other diseases and can be especially tricky to spot in long-haired cats.

Still, once the cat receives the right dosage of GS-441524 on schedule, they have a strong chance of survival.

3. FIP Ocular

Ocular FIP is a form of FIP that affects a cat’s eyes. It doesn't just damage the iris—it can also harm the pupil and internal structures of the eyeball.

This condition typically occurs in cats with dry FIP, which means there is no fluid buildup in the chest or abdomen.

Additionally, ocular FIP may occur on its own or alongside neurological symptoms.

4. FIP Neurologis

Neurological FIP is the most complex form of this disease. Since it attacks the central nervous system, it tends to have a more challenging prognosis.

That’s why early detection is critical. The faster a cat with neurological FIP receives high-dose GS-441524, the better their chances of recovery.

Survival Rates with Antiviral Treatment

The introduction of GS-441524 has brought new hope to cats and their humans. Clinically proven to block the virus from spreading, this treatment has saved thousands of cats over the years.

In fact, its success rate is as high as 89%! That means most cats that complete the treatment can go on to live happy, healthy lives for years.

Recurrence Risk After Successful Treatment

Treatment with GS-441524 typically lasts 84 days or around 12 weeks. This extended timeline is important to make sure the virus is fully eliminated from the body.

Cats that complete their treatment properly usually have a very low risk of relapse. That’s why giving the correct dose and completing the full 84-day cycle is so important.

Even after the treatment ends, owners are encouraged to continue regular health monitoring. Blood tests are also essential to confirm that the virus is no longer present.

Just so you know, aside from stopping treatment too early, other common causes of relapse include:

• Incorrect or insufficient dosage

• Inconsistent treatment plans

• Not performing a full blood panel before completing treatment
  

If your cat starts showing signs of a possible relapse, contact the Cure FIP Oceania Team right away for a consultation.

Long-Term Health Monitoring

Once your cat completes treatment, long-term monitoring is still needed to make sure they’re doing well. Here’s what to keep in mind.

• Get regular blood tests

• Watch for any behavior changes

• Be alert to any new symptoms

• Reach out to the Cure FIP Oceania Team via WhatsApp if anything feels off
  

With consistent post-treatment care, many cats that once had FIP now live healthy lives without any signs of relapse.

Final Thought

FIP is not the end of the road. Thanks to treatments like GS-441524, a cat’s chances of survival have dramatically improved.

Still, success depends on awareness, fast action, and a pet parent’s full commitment. If you suspect your cat has FIP, consult a vet immediately and explore the best treatment options—because their life is worth fighting for.