After two weeks of tears, on February 6th our baby bat Jester was diagnosed with neurological FIP.

Two years ago Feline infectious peritonitis (FIP) was a death sentence; the only reason we now have treatment is thanks to the research that went into the COVID19 vaccine. FIP is a viral disease and type of coronavirus found in most cats, but is more likely to develop into its deadly form in kittens around 4-12 months old, and raised in groups or colonies (ie catteries, breeders). Jester has the 'dry' form of FIP which comes with inflammation and neurological issues resulting in ataxia (wobbly, lack of balance, inability to walk).

It came out of nowhere, and what started as a common upper respiratory infection soon became hundreds of pounds of antibiotics, tests and hospitalisation for fever and ataxia.

Her insurance was quickly spent (no thanks to her incompetent vet) and we ended up bombing down a stormy motorway Wednesday night to check her into an ICU in Swindon.

Luckily over the last 72 hours she has responded to treatment and we are finally allowed to hope. It's going to be a long 16 week course of expensive medication and padding the entire flat from her stubborn dandy walks, but she is purring and making everything smell like tuna again.

We've only had her three months, and her crippling vet bills racked up in the thousands, so I implore any other unaware furparents out there to up their insurance as soon as possible. 🐕🩺

If anyone would like to send Jester a get-well soon present or something to help her recovery, you can shop for her favourite treats on her Amazon wishlist here: https://www.amazon.co.uk/hz/wishlist/ls/2IEGNP1YHB8HU... 🍬🍼