UPDATE 1/19: We had to extend treatment for at least 8 weeks, as Draco relapsed after 1 day off meds, his fever spiking to 105. We are absolutely heartbroken. At a current higher dose, we're looking at $650 every two weeks. We will have to extend treatment for at least 8 weeks, possibly a full twelve. Any donations will help. 

"Don't say FIP," was the only thing I could think when speaking with the vet on the phone. It has literally been my biggest fear since I've seen kittens pass at the rescue from it. I've previously adopted two neuro kittens, and Draco was supposed to be my healthy one. But he'd been having trouble breathing and didn't seem to be gaining weight and now they'd found fluid in his chest. Then she said it.

I made the appointment, as recommended, to put my 5 month old kitten down because I knew there was little that could be done and it would be inhumane to make him suffer just for myself to have a few more days/weeks.

FIP (Feline Infectious Peritonitis) is a mutation of a common coronavirus that 90-95% of cats get and usually pass with little to no symptoms. But in a small percentage, it mutates, and becomes FIP. There is little known about why the mutation occurs in some cats and not others or why it occurs at all. And there previously has been no treatment or cure.

But working in the vet/shelter world I've heard some rumblings about a cure for FIP. And even got in contact with people who are currently treating/have treated their cats successfully. I've also met a recovered cat! That was UNHEARD of before about 18 months ago.

And I found hope.

Today is day 9 of 84 of Draco's treatment and I've already seen improvements in his energy levels and his breathing is nearly back to normal.

The treatment is expensive, at $90 a vial, by the time we're done it will be over $2000. Each vial will last me about four days, and even less as he continues to gain weight. We are working closely with a vet to monitor his progress and each visit will cost about $100 to run the necessary blood work. 

Why would I do this for a cat?

I work closely with a rescue that does amazing work in my community, this year alone we have taken in over 500 cats. This has made me very passionate about the animals we help. Every pet I've adopted got a second chance at a life because of the work we've done in our county. I didn't adopt Draco to give up on him. He deserves a long happy life.

I was very hesitant to make this campaign, but I had several people reach out to me asking if they could donate to his care and if I'm honest with myself, we could use it. Just like many other families that are forced with this decision. I'm hoping that by sharing Draco's story I can spread the word that there is a cure. And hopefully help other families that suffer the same fate.

Thank you to anyone who is able to donate. And if you can't, please just share his story. It's more important to me that his story gets told.

If your cat is suffering from FIP please do not hesitate to reach out. I'd be happy to speak with you about the process.

#TeamDraco