What should breeders know in terms of genetics and how to proceed with breeding once a kitten from their cattery has been diagnosed with FIP?

On September 12, 2021, Munchie became lethargic and had lost two pounds since March. He had a fever, and there was fluid around his lungs. The vet suspected Feline Infectious Peritonitis (FIP) and collected the fluid sample. I searched the web to learn about FIP and found the FIP Warriors 5.0 Facebook page, which helped save Munchie’s life.

Luna: My Dad took this photo with my mom the weekend the specialists at MedVet told them to take me home to die—that nothing could be done besides palliative care medications to ease my suffering. Dad set up the studio lights and took our final photos together--I’m only 14 weeks old. Look how sick and depressed I am. But my mom didn't give up on me. She worked around the clock contacting every veterinary college she could find. One of those colleges 3000 miles away responded. They told her to get me on a plan as soon as possible, and they would try to save me. They did. Today, I’m a thriving four-year-old who is free from the scourge called Feline Infectious Peritonitis (FIP).

If your cat is ever diagnosed with this horror, please contact my mom (savannahgans@gmail.com). She can tell your parents how to save you, just like I was saved!

Luna Was the First Privately Owned Cat to Survive Feline Infectious Peritonitis with the Drug GS-441524 (formerly EVO984) at UCDavis with Dr. Niels Pedersen in April 2017.

After careful research and education to learn about Savannah cats, and ultimately selecting a reputable breeder, Luna joined our family in March of 2017 at the age of 10 weeks. She was spunky, alert, playful, and in seemingly good health when I picked her up in Boston. Luna isn't your usual cat. She's exceedingly friendly, funny, quirky, overly loving, and loaded with personality. Luna exceeded all expectations of what we thought a Savannah cat would be. She quickly melded into our home and our hearts as our first pet.