Feline infectious peritonitis (FIP) is a disease feared by every cat owner. Caused by a mutation of the feline Coronavirus, this illness is (if untreated) always lethal. 

In recent years, Tierhilfe Weidenberg last lost countless kittens and young cats to this insidious disease, but now, there is a new hope: A Therapy with the medication “GS-441524”. While not yet approved, the medication has shown great promise in a study of the LMU Munich, where in a group of 18 cats it showed to achieve a 100 % survival rate. (source: https://www.med.vetmed.uni-muenchen.de/news/fip/index.html )

We have had some experiences with this new drug as well when our feisty girl, Rhonda, was diagnosed with FIP. After the initial shock, we decided to take up the fight against this cruel fate and treated Rhonda with this experimental new drug. The first two weeks were tough, Rhonda had to endure painful shots of the treatment and could only be consoled with plenty of treats and cuddles.

Then a new blow: Rhonda developed at least 6 tumorous nodules on her stomach area. We immediately feared breast cancer, but luckily it turned out to be fibroadenomatus mammary hyperplasia, a hormonally caused benign condition of the mammary gland which could be treated by neutering her. The therapy with GS was resumed after her surgery and showed great results.

Since the 22. of April, Rhonda is in the 12-week cooling-off period. All of her stats are normal and she is happy, energetic and enjoying life. We are hoping that she will be considered cured after the cooling-off-period has passed and encourage all cat owners, to fight against the disease.

We are hopefully awaiting a quick approval of the medication and would like to thank Melanie Sizemore who (competent as always) carried out the treatment which lasted well over 80 days.