Feline Infectious Peritonitis (FIP)

Supporting veterinarians and pet owners with professionally compounded medications when prescribed by a licensed veterinarian.

The following information was written by Dr. Stephanie Sorrell, Prof. Séverine Tasker, Dr. Sam Taylor, Dr. Emi Barker, and Prof. Danielle Gunn-Moore

What is feline infectious peritonitis (FIP)?

Feline Infectious Peritonitis (FIP) is a condition associated with a type of coronavirus that affects cats only. This virus is different from coronaviruses that affect humans and does not pose a risk to people or other species.

Coronaviruses are commonly found in cats, and many cats may carry them without showing signs of illness. The presence of a coronavirus alone does not indicate that a cat has FIP, and additional evaluation is required to determine whether a specific condition is present.

Only a licensed veterinarian can assess a cat’s health, perform appropriate testing, and determine next steps. This information is provided for general awareness purposes only and is not intended to diagnose or guide medical care.

What cats are more likely to get FIP?

We do not know why certain cats develop FIP and others do not, but it is diagnosed more often in:

  • Cats under 2 years of age
  • Pedigree cats
  • Cats in multi-cat homes

Care for FIP Is Available from Stokes Pharmacy

Stokes Pharmacy has formed an exclusive partnership with the Bova group to offer a U.S.-made oral option for FIP. This support is backed by Bova’s unique formula, which has been utilized in clinical research studies.

This is an antiviral with a broad spectrum of activity against RNA viruses. It is indicated for use in cats and kittens for feline infectious peritonitis (FIP).

  • The only oral formula identical to the Bova formula used in clinical studies
  • Veterinarians can legally prescribe
  • Ready to ship same day nation-wide 
GS441524 Compounded FIP Treatment at Stokes Pharmacy

Different Types of Feline Infectious Peritonitis (FIP)

Wet Effusive Feline Infectious Peritonitis FIP

Wet FIP

When fluid develops in a body cavity - especially the abdomen and/or chest

Dry FIP Cat Photo 2

Dry FIP

When no fluid forms

Neurological FIP

Neurological FIP

Brain and/or spinal cord

Ocular Feline Infectious Peritonitis FIP

Ocular FIP

Affecting the eyes

Symptoms of Feline Infectious Peritonitis (FIP)

What are the symptoms of FIP in cats?

Cats with FIP can show a variety of signs as the disease can affect any organ in the body. The most common signs are:

  • Lethargy/tiredness
  • Eating less and losing weight
  • A high temperature

Additionally, the disease can cause fluid to accumulate in the abdomen/belly, chest and occasionally around the heart (so called ‘wet’ FIP) so owners may notice a swollen, rounded belly or the cat may have difficulty breathing. The non-effusive (‘dry’) form can affect any organ including the intestines, lymph nodes, brain, kidneys and eyes. Many cats have a combination of ‘wet’ and ‘dry’ forms of FIP and some cats have pale, slightly yellow gums.

If the brain or spinal cord is affected cats will show signs such as fits, an abnormal way of walking (wobbly gait), changes in behavior or trembling for example.

If the eyes are affected they may look cloudy, bloody or with different pupil sizes, and the cat may show signs of pain such as holding the eye or eyes closed.

Treatment for Feline Infectious Peritonitis (FIP)

How is Feline Infectious Peritonitis (FIP) in cats treated?

In the past, limited options were available for cats affected by FIP. Today, veterinarians may consider a range of approaches depending on an individual cat’s circumstances.

Any decisions regarding care duration, monitoring, or adjustments are determined solely by a licensed veterinarian based on professional judgment and ongoing evaluation. Responses may vary between cats, and only a veterinarian can assess progress and determine whether changes are appropriate.

This information is provided for general awareness only. Stokes Pharmacy does not provide medical advice, make care recommendations, or determine suitability, duration, or use of any medication.

Explore our support options

To See full offerings located under the FIP tab in our main menu

The Medications You Need. The Quality You Deserve.

With a partner like Stokes, you can be confident in the medications you receive and use. Our commitment to quality is put into practice in all that we do, for every patient we serve.

In an industry where regulations vary by state, and every prescription is custom-formulated, there’s a lot of room for error. Not at Stokes Pharmacy. We’ve always set the bar higher, voluntarily meeting and often exceeding the strictest compounding standards in the nation.

Why Stokes Pharmacy

  • Highest degree of quality for safe, reliable compounded prescriptions
  • Accredited by the Pharmacy Compounding Accreditation Board (PCAB®) for meeting and/or exceeding national quality standards
  • Multiple quality check points to ensure prescription accuracy
  • Preparations consistent from lot to lot