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Rowan first came to see us in late November 2025 after her owners noticed she was struggling to walk and becoming increasingly unsteady on her feet. This loss of balance, known as ataxia, was clearly observed during her consultation videos and was understandably very worrying.
A Complex Presentation
Rowan was initially assessed by Alison, one of our neurologists. Her clinical signs were suggestive of a possible spinal cord abnormality. However, during her examination it became clear that there was more going on. Rowan had a persistently high temperature and blood tests showed raised inflammatory markers, indicating an underlying systemic illness.
Because of this, Rowan was internally referred to our Internal Medicine team to allow a broader investigation into her symptoms and overall health.
Reaching a Diagnosis
Rowan underwent extensive diagnostic investigations with Bethany, one of our internal medicine clinicians. By combining her clinical signs, laboratory results and advanced diagnostic findings, a diagnosis of neurological Feline Infectious Peritonitis (FIP) was made.
What Is Feline Infectious Peritonitis?
Feline Infectious Peritonitis is a serious systemic viral disease that develops when cats infected with Feline Enteric Coronavirus – a very common and usually mild gastrointestinal virus—are unable to completely clear the infection.
In a small number of cats, the virus mutates within the body and triggers an abnormal immune response. This can result in a wide range of clinical signs, including:
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Persistent fever
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Weight loss and lethargy
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Breathing difficulties
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Abdominal fluid accumulation
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Eye inflammation
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Organ dysfunction
In some cases, including Rowan’s, the virus can affect the brain and spinal cord, leading to neurological signs such as poor balance, weakness and difficulty walking.
A Condition Once Considered Fatal
Until relatively recently, FIP was considered a fatal disease, with no effective treatment options available. This made a diagnosis of FIP devastating for many cat owners.
However, since the COVID-19 pandemic, systemic antiviral medications have become legally available in the UK, dramatically changing the outlook for cats diagnosed with FIP. These medications target the virus directly and can lead to remarkable improvements when treatment is started promptly.
Rowan’s Treatment and Recovery
Rowan was started on a course of antiviral therapy and responded extremely well. Over time, her neurological signs improved significantly, and her progress has been wonderful to see. Her follow-up videos show just how far she has come, and we are delighted with her response to treatment.
Why Rowan’s Case Matters
Rowan’s journey highlights the importance of considering FIP as a potential diagnosis in cats presenting with unusual or complex neurological and medical signs. Early investigation, collaboration between teams, and access to appropriate antiviral treatment can be life-changing.
The gorgeous Rowan!
We are incredibly grateful to Rowan’s dedicated owners for allowing us to share her story. By doing so, they are helping raise awareness of FIP and the evolving treatment options now available.
We are so pleased to see Rowan doing so well and wish her continued health and happiness.
