Feline Infectious Peritonitis (FIP) is a serious and sometimes fatal disease affecting cats. Upon diagnosis, many pet parents are understandably concerned about the FIP prognosis. Historically, FIP was considered incurable, with no viable treatment options. However, recent research and advancements in veterinary medicine have significantly improved survival rates for cats diagnosed with FIP.
Understanding the History of FIP Treatments for Cats
Before 2017, there was no known cure for FIP. Treatments primarily focused on managing symptoms rather than addressing the underlying disease. Veterinarians often prescribed interferons and TNF-alpha inhibitors to help regulate a cat's immune response. Supportive care—including dietary supplements—aimed to prolong survival, especially in cases of dry FIP. Despite these efforts, most cats diagnosed with FIP faced euthanasia within days or weeks. Fortunately, this is no longer the case as more effective treatments have emerged in recent years.
How Long Can a Cat Live with FIP?
The FIP prognosis for affected cats is now better than ever before. Recent breakthroughs in antiviral medications give veterinarians and pet parents new tools to fight FIP, with many cats achieving full remission. Ongoing research and advancements in veterinary medicine may continue to improve survival rates.
Exploring Advancements in FIP Treatments for Cats
The FIP prognosis for affected cats is now better than ever before. Recent breakthroughs in antiviral medications give veterinarians and pet parents new tools to fight FIP, with many cats achieving full remission. Ongoing research and advancements in veterinary medicine may continue to improve survival rates.
What is GS-441524?
GS-441524 is a groundbreaking antiviral drug revolutionizing FIP treatment. The medication first became available in 2018 and was recently approved for legal use in the U.S. in 2024. Clinical trials in the U.K. and Australia demonstrated its remarkable success in treating FIP. As a nucleoside analog, GS-441524 works by inserting itself into the viral RNA, preventing the virus from replicating.
How Do Cats Take GS-441524?
GS-441524 is available in two forms from Mixlab:
- 50 mg QUADmix tablets: Available for patient-specific or office use, depending on state regulations.
- 50 mg/mL oral suspension: Available for patient-specific use.
How Much Does GS-441524 Cost?
Lifesaving treatment should be accessible to all cats. At Mixlab, we provide GS-441524 at an affordable cost to both pet parents and veterinary offices - with tablets starting at $8.99 per tab. This means, a full course of treatment for the recommended 84 days costs less than $800 through Mixlab—priced lower than the industry average.
Our treatment not only makes FIP care significantly more affordable—helping more cats get the care they need—but it also ships with fast and free next-day delivery. Specific costs may vary based on the quantity and form of medication needed.
*This calculation is based on the average weight of cats on GS-441524 from Mixlab, which is 7 lbs, with the standard dosing of 15mg/kg administered once every 24 hours
How Safe is GS-441524?
While no FIP medication—including GS-441524—is officially FDA-approved, it is legal for U.S. compounding pharmacies to prepare GS-441524 for patient-specific use when prescribed by a veterinarian. Additionally, GS-441524 has been nominated for inclusion on the FDA’s GFI #256 list of approved bulk drug substances for office-use compounding. At the time this article is published, this nomination is currently under review.
As a trusted compounding pharmacy, Mixlab adheres to USP guidelines and PCAB® standards, sourcing ingredients exclusively from FDA-approved wholesalers based in the U.S. Pet owners and veterinarians can be confident in the quality and safety of GS-441524 from Mixlab. Hear from one of the pet parents who recently trusted us for their cat’s FIP medication:
What Treatments Were Available Before GS-441524?
Prior to the development of GS-441524, veterinarians attempted to manage FIP with medications such as prednisolone, interferon and polyprenyl immunostimulant. Unfortunately, these treatments were largely ineffective, and many cats still faced euthanasia. The advent of GS-441524 marked a significant turning point in FIP treatment, offering hope where there was previously little.
What is the FIP Prognosis with GS-441524?
With the introduction of GS-441524, the cure rate for FIP has risen to over 80%. However, factors such as misdiagnosis, improper dosage, additional health conditions and potential drug resistance can influence a cat's survival outcome. Collaborating closely with a veterinarian ensures the best possible treatment plan tailored to your cat's specific needs.
How to Comfort Your Pet Through FIP Treatment
Watching your cat go through FIP can be overwhelming, but you can make a real difference in their recovery. Your presence, care, and love are powerful tools that can help them feel safe and supported during their treatment. Here’s how you can take an active role in the healing journey:
- Monitor Your Cat Closely: Keep an eye on any changes in your cat’s symptoms and report them to your veterinarian promptly. In severe cases of FIP, symptoms may persist for days or months. Worsening symptoms could be a sign that your veterinarian needs to revisit the current treatment plan.
- Manage Symptoms: Treatment with GS-441524 can often reduce and remediate inflammation and other symptoms of FIP. However, ask your veterinarian if there are any other supportive measures you can take to manage your cat’s symptoms.
- Maintain a Clean Environment: Keeping your cat at home and in a hygienic space minimizes the risk of them developing another infection.
- Provide a Balanced Diet: Nutritious food supports your cat’s immune system and overall health. Specifically, vitamins, nutrients and a high-protein diet can support your cat’s strength.
- Consider Administered Fluids: Your veterinarian may recommend subcutaneous fluid administration to maintain your cat’s hydration.
- Isolate If Necessary: If you have other cats, you should consider isolating your infected cat to prevent potential transmission. Feline infectious peritonitis itself is not contagious—but the virus that causes it is. If your other cats contract the virus, there is a small chance they could also develop FIP.
Strategies for Coping with an FIP Diagnosis
Facing an FIP diagnosis is incredibly tough for most pet parents, both emotionally and mentally. With knowledge and coping strategies, you can navigate this challenging journey with both resilience and compassion—ensuring that both you and your cat are well cared for. Here are some ways to cope:
- Educate Yourself: FIP is a complex and often misunderstood disease, and knowing the facts will help you make informed decisions. Ask your veterinarian about your cat's specific condition, potential treatment options and the FIP prognosis based on your cat's individual situation. The more you understand, the better you'll be equipped to manage your cat’s care and advocate for their well-being.
- Focus on Positive Outcomes: Treatments like GS-441524 have helped many cats recover or experience significant improvements in their quality of life. Although the journey is still challenging and the effectiveness of treatments can vary, focusing on the positive aspects of these advancements can help you maintain a hopeful outlook.
- Seek Support: The emotional toll of an FIP diagnosis can feel isolating, but you don't have to go through it alone. Connecting with others who understand what you're going through can be incredibly therapeutic. Consider reaching out to friends or family who can provide a listening ear. You might also find comfort in joining support groups, either online or in-person, where fellow cat owners share their experiences and coping strategies. You might also consider seeking professional counseling to help you process your emotions.
- Practice Self-care: When you’re focused on providing the best care for your cat, it’s easy to neglect your own well-being. However, taking care of yourself is vital not only for your mental and emotional health but also to ensure that you have the energy and resilience to care for your cat effectively. Make sure to get enough rest, eat well and engage in activities that bring you peace.
Fast and Effective FIP Treatments for Your Cat
If your cat has been diagnosed with FIP, timely treatment is crucial. Mixlab offers GS-441524 in both oral suspension and tablet forms, ensuring that you can easily and successfully administer treatment to your cat. Given the importance of early intervention, we provide fast and free next-day delivery for your cat's medication. Simply submit your prescription online or reach out to our team with any questions. We're here to support you and your cat every step of the way.
