Prevention of Faecal FCoV Shedding
Belle Ayr was pleased to provide the funding that enabled the publication of this research.
A study co-authored by Diane D. Addie, published in Research in Veterinary Science, reported that oral Mutian® X pills successfully stopped faecal feline coronavirus (FCoV) shedding in 29 naturally infected cats. The findings indicated that this treatment could be an effective method to control the spread of FCoV in multi-cat environments.
Key Findings of the Study
Efficacy: A dose of 4 mg/kg of Mutian X given every 24 hours for four days was identified as the optimal treatment protocol, clearing the virus in 95% of the cats treated at this dose.
Outcome: All 29 cats in the study were eventually cleared of the infection, though four required a second course of treatment.
Long-term results: Treated cats remained virus-free for up to 157 days of post-treatment observation, with no evidence of intermittent shedding.
Significance: The study was the first report of the successful elimination of faecal FCoV shedding in chronically infected cats using an antiviral drug. The goal was to provide a protocol to help prevent the transmission of FCoV and reduce the incidence of FIP (feline infectious peritonitis), a fatal disease that develops in a minority of FCoV-infected cats.
Important Considerations
Drug Status: Mutian X is not an FDA-approved drug in the United States and is generally sourced through "black market" channels or social media groups.
Veterinary Guidance: The paper's authors advise that such medications, even though unlicensed, should be used under proper veterinary guidance rather than solely on advice from social media.
Active Ingredient: Mutian X has been found to contain GS-441524, a nucleoside analogue shown to be highly effective in treating FIP.
Prevention: Stopping the shedding of the virus is a key strategy for preventing FIP in multi-cat households, as the virus is typically spread through the faecal-oral route.
Read the full publication:
Oral Mutian®X stopped faecal feline coronavirus shedding by naturally infected cats