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Researchers seek cats with FIP for new study
Until recently, FIP was an invariably fatal disease, but new research offers hope.
The study aims to improve diagnosis, treatment and prognosis.

A research team at the University of Edinburgh Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies is looking to recruit approximately 100 cats for a new study into feline infectious peritonitis (FIP). 

Cats with either wet or dry FIP can be enrolled in the study as long as they have had their diagnosis confirmed using the ABCD Algorithm and their owners have given written informed consent. Each cat will stay under the care of their GP veterinarian, with support from the study clinicians.

FIP is a viral disease in young cats, and occasionally older ones, caused by a coronavirus. Until recently, it was nearly always fatal, but research into COVID-19 has suggested that GS-441524 and its prodrug remdesivir can successfully be used to treat it. 

However, diagnosing the disease is still difficult. With an effective treatment now available, it is important to create a definitive test to diagnose and monitor the disease.

The researchers plan to evaluate two diagnostic possibilities: acute-phase proteins (APPs) and micro-RNA (mrRNA) in blood and effusions. It is hoped that at least one of these can be used to develop a reliable test for diagnosis, monitoring and prognosis of FIP.

Case histories and owner questionnaires will help the team to assess whether specific APPs and/or miRNA profiles can be used to predict how well a cat will respond to treatment. 

Prof Danièlle Gunn-Moore, part of the research team, said: “I undertook a PhD study into FIP in 1994 because I had seen so many beautiful kittens die from this hideous disease. I never imagined that I would now be able to treat so many of these precious babies so successfully. It really is the most important thing to happen in feline medicine in my lifetime. I am proud to be part of a group of people who are trying to work out the best way to use these drugs.”

More information about the study, including the participant information sheet and consent form, can be found here.

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Equine Disease Surveillance report released for Q4 2025

News Story 1
 The latest Equine Disease Surveillance report has been released, with details on equine disease from Q4 of 2025.

The report, produced by Equine Infectious Disease Surveillance, includes advice on rule changes for equine influenza vaccination.

Statistics and maps detail recent outbreaks of equine herpes virus, equine influenza, equine strangles and equine grass sickness. A series of laboratory reports provides data on virology, bacteriology, parasitology and toxicosis.

This issue also features a case study of orthoflavivus-associated neurological disease in a horse in the UK. 

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News Shorts
RCVS annual renewal fee for vets due

RCVS' annual renewal fee for veterinary surgeons is now due. Vets must pay their renewal fee before Wednesday, 1 April 2026.

This year's standard annual fee has increased to 431 from last year's 418. This is an approximately three per cent increase, as approved by RCVS Council and the Privy Council.

Tshidi Gardner, RCVS treasurer, said: "The small fee increase will be used to help deliver both our everyday activities and our new ambitious Strategic Plan, which includes aims such as achieving new legislation, reviewing the Codes of Professional Conduct and supporting guidance, and continuing to support the professions through activities such as the Mind Matters Initiative, RCVS Academy and career development."

A full breakdown of the new fees is on the RCVS website. Information about tax relief is available on the UK government website.