FIP Treatment Timeline Explained: What to Expect Week by Week with GS-441524
- BasmiFIP India
- 3 days ago
- 5 min read
Feline Infectious Peritonitis (FIP) is a serious illness in cats caused by a mutation of the feline coronavirus (FCoV). In the past, FIP was widely considered untreatable. Today, however, GS-441524 has changed the outlook for many cats diagnosed with this condition.

For cat owners, especially those new to FIP treatment, understanding the GS-441524 treatment timeline can reduce fear and confusion. Knowing what is normal during recovery helps you stay prepared, calm, and confident throughout the process.
Most treatment plans follow an 84-day (12-week) course. Improvement happens step by step, and each cat may recover at a slightly different pace.
👉 Read more: Understanding FIP in Cats and How to Manage It
How GS-441524 Works and Why Treatment Usually Starts with Injections
GS-441524 is an antiviral medication that works by stopping the FIP virus from multiplying inside the body. In the early phase of treatment, many cats are still unwell and may experience:
Poor appetite
Vomiting or loose stools
Fever and weakness
Because digestion may be unreliable at this stage, injectable GS-441524 is usually recommended at the beginning of treatment. Injections provide dependable absorption and often lead to quicker visible improvement.
Once a cat becomes stable — eating normally, active, and free from digestive issues — oral capsules can be introducedfor comfort and ease of long-term treatment.
💡 Important note: Switching to oral medication does not mean injections are no longer effective. It simply means the cat’s body is now strong enough to absorb the medicine properly through the digestive system.
GS-441524 Treatment Timeline: Week-by-Week Overview
Below is a general guide to what many cat owners observe during the 12-week treatment period.
Week 1: Early Stabilisation
Main goal: Stop viral replication and stabilise the cat’s condition.
Common observations:
Many cats show improvement within 3–5 days
Fever begins to reduce
Appetite slowly returns
Slight increase in energy, though weakness may remain
Small but noticeable weight gain by the end of the week
Monitoring focus: Blood tests may be used to assess inflammation levels and organ response.
Weeks 2–3: Noticeable Improvement
Main goal: Confirm consistent response to treatment.
Typical changes:
Improved appetite and water intake
Increased alertness and grooming
Reduction of abdominal or chest fluid, if present
Digestive issues such as vomiting or diarrhoea often improve
Owner reminder: Give each dose on time and avoid missed injections.
Follow-up blood tests are often recommended to check protein levels and inflammation markers.
Weeks 4–6: Stabilisation and Recovery Progress
Main goal: Support healing and monitor internal recovery.
Expected progress:
Steady weight gain
Improving albumin and globulin balance
Energy levels approaching normal
What to remember:
Mild tiredness can still occur
Do not stop treatment early, even if your cat appears fully recovered
Some cats may be suitable for transitioning to oral GS-441524 during this phase if:
Appetite and activity are stable
There is no vomiting or diarrhoea
Blood test trends are improving
Weeks 7–9: Continued Healing with Close Monitoring
Main goal: Maintain improvement and identify issues early.
Positive signs include:
Shinier, healthier coat
Continued weight gain
Playful and interactive behaviour
Albumin-to-globulin (A/G) ratio generally above 0.6
Possible concerns:
Short periods of reduced appetite
Mild fatigue
If symptoms worsen or return, veterinary advice is essential. In some cases, dosage adjustments may be required.
For cats on oral medication, this phase is important for confirming consistent absorption.
Weeks 10–12: Completing the Treatment Course
Main goal: Achieve full viral control and prepare for observation.
At this stage, most cats show:
Stable body weight
Normal eating and litter habits
Blood test values within healthy ranges
⚠️ Important: Completing 84 days of treatment is not the final step. Most veterinarians recommend a 12-week post-treatment observation period to ensure there is no relapse.
Transitioning from Injections to Oral Capsules
Many owners ask when it is safe to switch from injections to oral medication.
When Is the Switch Considered?
Based on guidance followed by BasmiFIP India, a transition may be considered:
After 2–4 weeks of stable improvement
When fever, appetite loss, and fluid accumulation have resolved
When digestion is normal and reliable
Which Cats Are Good Candidates?
Cats experiencing discomfort from injections
Cats with stable appetite and weight
Owners who can give capsules consistently at the same time each day
What to Monitor After Switching
Appetite and stool consistency
Energy level and behaviour
Ongoing weight gain
Follow-up blood tests every 4 weeks
If problems arise, temporarily returning to injections is sometimes recommended and should not be viewed as a setback.
Understanding Blood Test Monitoring During FIP Treatment
Blood tests help track recovery and guide treatment decisions.
Commonly Monitored Tests
Test | Purpose | Signs of Improvement |
CBC | Red and white blood cells | Values moving toward normal |
Total Protein | Inflammation indicator | Gradual normalisation |
Albumin & Globulin (A/G Ratio) | Protein balance | Rising A/G (>0.7) |
Liver & Kidney Enzymes | Organ health | Stable or improving results |
Typical Testing Schedule
Before or at the start of treatment
Around weeks 4 and 8
At week 12
After treatment: weeks 4, 8, and 12
Signs of Improvement vs. Warning Signs
Signs GS-441524 Is Working
Normal body temperature (38–39°C)
Consistent appetite and hydration
Weight gain and improved muscle tone
Bright, alert eyes
Reduced abdominal or chest fluid
Contact Your Veterinarian If You Notice:
Fever returning after improvement
Ongoing vomiting or diarrhoea
Refusal to eat for more than 24 hours
Weight loss or increasing weakness
Worsening pain or swelling at injection sites
Common Concerns During GS-441524 Treatment
Plateaus: Improvement may slow temporarily — this is common
Slow responders: Certain FIP strains or additional infections can delay recovery
Temporary setbacks: Stress, dietary changes, or mild infections may cause short regressions
Consistency, correct dosing, and regular communication with your veterinary or support team are essential.
Final Thoughts: Patience, Monitoring, and Hope
GS-441524 has changed FIP from a once-fatal disease into a condition many cats can overcome. The 12-week treatment journey requires dedication, but steady improvement — even when slow — is meaningful progress.
Keep records of your cat’s weight, appetite, and behaviour, and stay in close contact with your veterinarian or treatment support team.
If you need guidance or case-specific advice, you may request a FREE consultation through BasmiFIP India:
Website: basmifipindia.com
WhatsApp: +60 11 6174 8397
Instagram: basmifip.ind
Facebook: BasmiFIP India
Early support helps you move forward with clarity, confidence, and care for your cat.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How long does GS-441524 treatment usually last?
Typically 84 days, followed by a 12-week observation period.
2. When can my cat switch from injections to oral capsules?
Usually after 2–4 weeks of stable improvement without digestive issues.
3. Which blood test results suggest recovery?
Improving A/G ratio, normal CBC, and stable liver and kidney values.
4. Can treatment be stopped early if my cat looks healthy?
No. Completing the full course is essential to prevent relapse.
5. What should I do if a dose is missed?
Give the next dose as soon as possible. Do not double the dose.
6. Is GS-441524 safe for long-term use?
When used correctly under veterinary guidance, most cats tolerate it well.