For cat lovers across New Jersey and beyond, the phrase “Feline Infectious Peritonitis” or FIP, has long carried a heavy weight, often signaling a devastating and once-untreatable disease. However, thanks to the tireless dedication of researchers and organizations like the EveryCat Health Foundation, that narrative is rapidly changing. This September 6-7, 2025, the EveryCat Health Foundation is hosting a vital FIP Education Symposium, “Has PURRsistence Cured FIP? All We Know So Far,” promising to bring lifesaving feline research and treatment information directly to both veterinary professionals and devoted pet parents.
FIP is a complex and serious viral disease in cats, typically arising from a mutation of a common, often harmless feline coronavirus that most cats carry. When this mutation occurs, it can lead to widespread inflammation throughout a cat’s body, affecting multiple organs and, historically, almost always proving fatal. The disease can manifest in various forms, from the “wet” form characterized by fluid accumulation in the abdomen or chest, to the “dry” form which can cause more subtle, yet equally serious, issues affecting organs like the kidneys, liver, and even the nervous system.
For decades, an FIP diagnosis was a heartbreaking pronouncement. Treatments were largely supportive, aiming only to make affected cats more comfortable, but offering no cure. However, recent breakthroughs, fueled by dedicated research and funding, have revolutionized the landscape of FIP treatment. Newer antiviral medications have shown remarkable promise, achieving high success rates in treating cats with FIP where once there was none. This shift from a universally fatal condition to one with significant hope for recovery is truly extraordinary.
The EveryCat Health Foundation, a non-profit solely dedicated to advancing feline health through groundbreaking research and education, has been at the forefront of this fight since the early 1990s. Their commitment to funding innovative studies has directly contributed to the incredible progress we’re seeing in understanding and treating FIP today. This upcoming symposium is a direct result of their dedication, aiming to disseminate the very latest knowledge and practical clinical management strategies to the wider feline community.
The “Has PURRsistence Cured FIP? All We Know So Far” symposium is designed to be comprehensive, offering insights for everyone involved in feline care. Veterinary professionals will have the opportunity to earn continuing education hours while learning about the newest diagnostic techniques, treatment protocols, and monitoring strategies for FIP. This is crucial for ensuring that the latest scientific advancements are quickly integrated into clinical practice, benefiting more cats in need.
Perhaps even more exciting is the dedicated “Pet Parent” track on Sunday, September 7th. This provides a unique opportunity for cat owners to learn directly from leading researchers and clinicians about the disease, the new treatment options, and practical tips for caring for FIP-diagnosed cats. Understanding the disease, dispelling common myths, and learning how to manage FIP in multi-cat households are just some of the invaluable topics that will be covered. This direct access to expert knowledge empowers pet parents to make informed decisions and actively participate in their beloved feline companions’ recovery journey.
The symposium represents a beacon of hope, showcasing how persistent scientific inquiry and dedicated support can overcome even the most formidable challenges in veterinary medicine. It’s a celebration of the strides made in feline health, reminding us that with continued effort and collaboration, a future where FIP is no longer a death sentence for our cherished cats is within reach.
For more information on vital health and wellness initiatives for both humans and their beloved animal companions across New Jersey, explore our dedicated section here: https://explorenewjersey.org/category/health-wellness/
