21/10/2026
✨Patient Spotlight ✨
Archie the FIP (Feline Infectious Peritonitis) Survivor 💪
Archie is a gorgeous rescue from Europe who at first seemed to adapt well to her new life in the UK. She settled in nicely with her new brother, had all the recommended vaccinations and worming treatments, and was insured by her owners. The only thing that seemed to be troubling this little lady was a persistent eye infection that just wasn't responding to treatment. After a discussion with her owners we agreed the best course of action was to refer her to an ophthalmologist (Julia at Eye Right Referrals ) to get specialist care. Based on Archie's persistent eye infection and some abnormal blood work, Julia suspected that Archie had a rare form of FIP.
She sent away a test and we all anxiously awaited the results 😬
During this period Archie suddenly declined. She went off her food, was losing weight, and had very little energy. Her owners were very worried, and her veterinary team became concerned that she might not survive. We stabilised her then made an emergency referral to the Dick Vet Hospital in Edinburgh, and her owners rushed Archie to hospital to save her life.
Here it was confirmed she had FIP based on a very sensitive blood test that checks inflammation (AGP), and Archie was immediately started on oral GS-441524 to begin treatment. She was hospitalised for several days, but eventually discharged back to her owners to continue her treatment and recovery at home 💊
The treatment for FIP is gruelling. Archie needed daily medication for three months, and regular blood tests to assess her response. All of this can take a toll on both the patient and the caregivers. Luckily in this case, Archie ain't no quitter and her owners are very dedicated to her wellbeing.
We are now delighted to announce that Archie is officially in remission from FIP and is predicted to have a normal life expectancy! ❤️❤️❤️
Archie's case is an incredible story of survival and resilience. 15 years ago FIP was a death sentence, and 10 years ago it was illegal to treat with medication only available on the black market. Thanks to advances in pharmacology and campaigning by cat owners to legalise it, GS-441524 is now licenced and recognised as the treatment of choice for FIP, a change that has quite literally saved the lives of thousands of cats 🙏
We are so grateful to Julia at Eye Right, the specialist teams at the Dick Vet Hospital, and most of all to Archie's owners for their commitment, quick thinking, and love for their furry friend 😻
"We are forever grateful to Medivet Alloa for making sure that Archie was stable enough to make it to hospital, for getting her the medication she so desperately needed, and for continuing to help us care for her during her recovery." - Archie's family.
