A Case Study from Dr. Emily Thompson, DVM (London Feline Clinic)
Patient: Oliver, 10-month-old male Domestic Shorthair
Location: Brighton, UK
Diagnosis: Wet FIP with severe pleural effusion (confirmed via PCR and Rivalta test)
Presenting Symptoms (Day 0):
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Labored breathing (respiratory rate: 60/min)
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Fever (40.1°C/104.2°F)
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Anorexia (5% weight loss)
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Yellow-tinged mucous membranes
Treatment Protocol:
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GS-441524 Injections
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Dosage: 8mg/kg SQ q24h
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Duration: 84 days
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Supportive Care:
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Thoracocentesis (Day 1: 80mL removed)
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Appetite stimulants (mirtazapine)
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IV fluids (first 48 hours)
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Key Milestones:
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Day 3: Respiratory rate normalized (30/min)
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Week 2: Ultrasound showed 70% reduction in effusion
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Week 6: Bloodwork normalized (A/G ratio improved from 0.3 to 0.7)
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Day 84: Discontinued treatment – no clinical signs
6-Month Follow Up:
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PCR negative for FCoV
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Maintained ideal body weight
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No relapse observed
Owner’s Perspective:
“We rushed Oliver to emergency care when he collapsed. The vet said it was either FIP or heart disease – when the PCR came back positive, we were devastated. Starting injections that same day was terrifying, but we saw changes almost immediately. By week 3, he was jumping on counters again! The mobile app from CFC helped us track doses and connect with their vet team 24/7 during crises. Today, Oliver’s our miracle cat – we even fostered another FIP kitten to pay it forward.”
— The Harrison Family
Clinical Takeaways:
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Early intervention critical (initiated treatment <48hrs post-diagnosis)
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Combination of medical and emotional support boosts compliance
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Long-term monitoring essential – this case shows sustained remission