Chinese Study Links COVID Medicines to Feline Virus Recovery
A new viral disease is affecting cats in China, raising concerns among pet owners. The disease, known as Feline Infectious Peritonitis (FIP), is caused by a strain of feline coronavirus. This infection spreads throughout the cat’s body and, over time, can affect white blood cells, turning it into a fatal condition if left untreated. FIP exclusively affects cats and does not spread to humans or other animals.
Reports from local Chinese media suggest that several cat owners, in an attempt to protect their pets or treat infected ones, are administering COVID-19 antiviral drugs to their cats. The high cost of conventional FIP treatment is driving many owners toward the use of these alternatives. Normally, medications designed to treat FIP are expensive and not readily affordable.
Studies have also shown that certain COVID-19 antiviral drugs can be effective in treating FIP, encouraging more cat owners to use them. As a result, there has been a surge in the sale of COVID drugs in China for veterinary purposes. Several owners have claimed that their cats have recovered after being treated with these medications.
Meanwhile, a new respiratory virus, Human Metapneumovirus (hMPV), is also reportedly spreading in parts of China, adding to public health concerns.
Also Read: Human Metapneumovirus in China: Indian Health Officials Respond