Can Cats Fully Recover from FIP? A Guide to the 12-Week Observation Period After Treatment
- BasmiFIP India
- Oct 6
- 3 min read
Feline Infectious Peritonitis (FIP) was once seen as a hopeless diagnosis for cats. But thanks to breakthroughs in veterinary science and the antiviral drug GS-441524, thousands of cats worldwide—including many in India—have now recovered and gone back to living normal, healthy lives.
However, the journey to recovery does not end once treatment stops. After completing the standard 84 days of therapy, cats must go through a 12-week observation period. This critical stage determines if the cat has truly recovered or if there’s a risk of relapse.
This article explains what the observation period is, signs of healthy recovery, red flags to watch out for, and how Indian cat parents can best support their cats during this time.
What Is the Observation Period for FIP Cats?
The observation period is the 12 weeks immediately after treatment, when a cat must be carefully monitored.
Many cat parents feel relieved once symptoms disappear and blood tests improve. But relapse can still happen in a small number of cases. This is why vets and FIP communities strongly emphasize the importance of this stage.
How Long Should the Observation Period Last?
Typically, vets recommend 12 weeks (3 months). During this time, cats should be monitored both at home and through veterinary tests:
Day 30 – First blood test to check liver, kidney function, and protein levels.
Day 60 – Second blood test to confirm stability and no signs of inflammation.
Day 84 (end of treatment) – Third blood test and final evaluation before entering the observation stage.
At home, parents should record appetite, body weight, energy, and temperature every day.
Positive Signs of Recovery
Healthy recovery indicators during the 12-week period include:
Eating normally and regularly
Gaining weight steadily (100–200g per week for adult cats)
More energy: playing, grooming, interacting
Stable body temperature, no recurring fevers
Normal blood test results (liver, kidney, protein levels)
No abnormal fluid buildup in the abdomen or chest
Red Flags: Signs of Relapse
Even cats that look well can relapse. Watch for:
Loss of appetite
Sudden weight loss
Fever returning or unstable body temperature
Weakness, excessive sleep
Fluid reappearing in the abdomen or chest
Neurological symptoms (seizures, wobbly walking, sudden blindness)
Ocular symptoms (cloudy or inflamed eyes)
How to Support Your Cat During the Observation Period
Nutrition – Feed high-protein, easily digestible food. Avoid raw food that may carry infections.
Safe Environment – Keep the cat stress-free, provide warmth and comfort.
Daily Checks – Track temperature, weight, and appetite daily.
Clean Home – Maintain litter hygiene, limit contact with other cats to reduce FCoV spread.
Vet Visits – Blood tests on days 30, 60, and 84 are strongly recommended.
Conclusion
Can cats fully recover from FIP? Yes. Thousands of success stories, including many in India, have proven that with GS-441524 therapy, cats can make a complete recovery.
But the 12-week observation period is crucial. If your cat remains active, symptom-free, and stable during this time, the chance of relapse is very low.
For Indian cat parents, your role is to provide the best care, consistent monitoring, and quick action if relapse signs appear. With proper attention, the outlook for FIP cats has never been brighter.
FAQ
Q: Can cats in India recover fully from FIP?
Yes. With GS-441524 treatment, many cats in India have recovered completely.
Q: How long is the observation period after treatment?
Around 12 weeks, with vet checkups and blood tests at days 30, 60, and 84.
Q: What are warning signs of relapse?
Loss of appetite, recurring fever, sudden weight loss, fluid buildup, or neurological/ocular issues.