Every November 18th, animal lovers around the world unite for FIP Awareness Day, a time to shine a light on one of the most heartbreaking feline illnesses: Feline Infectious Peritonitis (FIP). Once considered a death sentence for cats, FIP is now a battle that can be fought - and, in many cases, won - thanks to compassionate people and evolving veterinary understanding.

At Furkids, we have joined the fight in helping treat FIP-positive cats, many of whom would otherwise be euthanized due to lack of resources or care. Through a combination of veterinary guidance, tailored treatment plans, and supportive foster homes, we give these cats a chance to not just survive, but to thrive. Treating a single FIP-positive cat typically costs around $2,500, a significant investment that we commit to because their lives are worth it.

Our team of staff and volunteers work tirelessly to make this possible. One of our longtime volunteers, Susan Struble, has been part of Furkids for 12 years, and since then - she has helped guide dozens of FIP-positive cats through recovery, providing medical care, monitoring, and the love and attention every cat deserves. Her dedication is a shining example of the commitment Furkids makes to each fragile life that comes through our doors.  

FIP is caused by a mutation of the feline coronavirus. It affects cats’ immune systems and can appear in different forms, sometimes causing fluid buildup in the chest or abdomen, difficulty breathing, lethargy, fever, or neurological issues like unsteady movement. For decades, a diagnosis of FIP was considered hopeless, but in recent years, new treatments and veterinary advances have given cats a fighting chance.

Furkids began helping FIP-positive cats in 2019 after one of our shelter cats, Scottie, became gravely ill. Determined to find a path forward, we connected with veterinarians, researched tirelessly, and began supporting FIP cats through specialized treatment plans and close medical monitoring. Within days, Scottie began improving, and that moment changed everything.

Thanks to our staff and volunteers, like Susan, Furkids has treated and saved more than 100 cats with FIP. Our success rate is now around 90%, a testament to the dedication, vigilance, and hope that go into every case. Though not every case has a successful outcome, we remind ourselves to focus on the many lives that have been saved through persistence, care, and love. Treating an FIP cat is a long, emotional journey. Each cat requires weeks of medication, careful observation, and frequent bloodwork to monitor progress. “It’s a roller coaster,” Susan admits, “but when you see them start to play again, eat again, and come back to life - it’s all worth it.”

Each FIP survivor holds a special place in our heart, but one that stands out is Roo, a large black cat who battled FIP after several years of perfect health. His recovery was long and uncertain, but his determination and Susan’s pulled him through. Today, Roo is healthy, happy, and officially a beloved member of her family.

Today, FIP no longer has to mean the end of the road. With dedicated caretakers, knowledgeable veterinarians, and supportive communities, more cats are surviving this once-fatal disease than ever before. Furkids is proud to be one of the only rescues in the Southeast that intentionally rescues and cares for FIP-positive cats. Supporting our medical fund allows us to continue helping cats with complex medical needs - including those diagnosed with FIP. This FIP Awareness Day, help us give more cats the chance to heal. You can make a lifesaving donation at furkids.org/donation.