Dry Feline Infectious Peritonitis (FIP) in the Brain and Eyes: Recognising and Treating a Critical Stage

When dry FIP in cats reaches the brain (neurological FIP) or eyes (ocular FIP), it becomes one of the most difficult—but increasingly treatable—stages of this disease in Australia and New Zealand.

Known as neurological or ocular dry FIP, this condition is harder to detect and demands urgent, specialised care. Here's what cat owners in Australia and New Zealand need to know.

How Dry FIP Reaches the Brain and Eyes in Cats

FIP starts with a common feline coronavirus (FCoV), which most cats carry without serious issues. In rare cases, this virus mutates and begins infecting immune cells. That’s when it turns into FIP—a serious illness that can spread throughout the body.

FIP appears in two forms:

• Wet (effusive) – involves fluid buildup

• Dry (non-effusive) – causes inflammation in different organs, including the brain and eyes

In dry FIP, the virus crosses the blood-brain and blood-ocular barriers—natural defences that usually shield these sensitive areas. Once breached, it can trigger neurological or ocular symptoms that are harder to spot and treat.

Takeaway: When FIP reaches the brain or eyes, the situation becomes more serious. Immediate attention and the right antiviral treatment are essential.

Neurological FIP Symptoms in Cats: What to Watch For

When FIP affects the nervous system, symptoms may develop gradually, often mistaken for other conditions. Watch for:

• Wobbly movement or loss of coordination

• Head tilt

• Seizures or twitching

• Changes in behaviour or alertness

• Difficulty balancing or walking

• Sudden confusion or lethargy

These signs are often seen in young or otherwise healthy cats and can be easy to overlook in early stages.

Ocular FIP in Cats: Eye Changes and Vision Loss

Ocular FIP may show up with or without brain involvement. Cats are good at adapting to vision changes, so symptoms can be subtle:

• Cloudy eyes

• Uneven pupils

• Iris colour changes

• Vision-related mobility issues

• Eye redness, inflammation, or unusual reflections

A proper veterinary eye exam is key if you notice anything off, even if your cat seems to be coping well.

Why FIP in Cats Is Often Misdiagnosed

Many of these signs mimic other conditions:

• Seizures might be labelled as epilepsy

• Balance issues could be blamed on an inner ear problem

• Eye changes might look like conjunctivitis

Because of this, FIP is often diagnosed late—especially in high-risk cats (young, purebred, or recently stressed). Delayed diagnosis means the virus has more time to cause damage.

Tip: If your cat is showing multiple unexplained symptoms, bring up FIP with your vet—especially if they're young or recently unwell.

GS-441524: Effective Antiviral for Brain and Eye FIP

GS-441524 is the antiviral compound behind CureFIP Oceania’s treatment protocols. It directly targets the virus causing FIP and has proven especially effective for brain and eye involvement.

How It Works

It stops the virus from replicating by blocking its RNA polymerase. With the correct dosage, it can reach the brain and eyes—making it a strong option for severe FIP cases.

What the Research Shows

In a 2019 study by Dr. Niels Pedersen (UC Davis), cats with neurological and ocular FIP improved significantly after GS-441524 treatment, showing better movement, clearer vision, and increased alertness.

• Lab tests also confirmed it safely stops the virus in feline cells

• No harmful side effects were found at therapeutic levels

GS-441524 Treatment Plan for Severe Dry FIP

Brain and eye FIP cases require higher care levels than typical FIP:

• Higher dosages of GS-441524

• At least 84 days of daily treatment

• Ongoing checkups to monitor progress

• Decision between oral or injectable forms, based on what’s best for your cat

CureFIP Oceania offers both oral and injectable options, and our team can help guide you or your vet through the process.

Recovery Timeline After Treating Neurological/Ocular FIP

Recovery is gradual, but early improvements may include:

• More stable walking

• Brighter, more symmetrical eyes

• Increased appetite

• Fewer tremors or twitches

While some cats show progress within a few weeks, others take longer. Regular vet visits are essential during and after treatment.

Hope for Cats with Brain or Eye FIP in Oceania

Not long ago, neurological or ocular FIP was essentially a death sentence. Today, GS-441524 is giving pet owners and vets a powerful new option—and many cats are now surviving and thriving.

If you suspect your cat has neurological or ocular FIP:

• Don’t wait—get them tested as soon as possible

• Find a vet familiar with FIP

• Begin antiviral treatment immediately under professional guidance

Explore Your Options

• Oral GS-441524

• Injectable GS-441524

Need help choosing a protocol? 

Our team is here to help you and your vet find the right plan.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is neurological FIP in cats?

Neurological FIP is a form of dry feline infectious peritonitis that affects the brain, causing movement issues, seizures, and confusion.

What are the symptoms of ocular FIP?

Ocular FIP symptoms include cloudy eyes, unequal pupils, iris colour change, and subtle signs of vision loss.

Can GS-441524 treat brain or eye FIP?

Yes. GS-441524 can cross the blood-brain and blood-ocular barriers when dosed properly, making it effective for severe FIP.

How long does treatment for neurological FIP take?

Treatment usually lasts 84 days or more, depending on severity and response. Higher doses are needed for brain/eye cases.

Is GS-441524 available in Australia or NZ?

Yes. CureFIP Oceania provides both oral and injectable forms of GS-441524 and guides owners through the full treatment protocol.