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Cat Vaccinations

Every pet is different when it comes to vaccinations. Your pet’s unique environment and lifestyle will dictate what your pet needs and does not need. It is important to know that your cat’s vaccine needs can vary depending on age, travel plans and lifestyle.

Does my indoor cat need to be vaccinated?


It is a question commonly heard in practice. There can be several reasons why your indoor cat may need to be vaccinated and why your veterinarian recommends keeping your cat up-to-date. There is no one size fits all protocol for your cat’s individual need, and your veterinary team is more than happy to provide you with a custom vaccination program catered for your indoor cat’s individual needs.

What is FVRCP and core vaccine for cats?


“FVRCP, feline viral Rhinotracheitis, Calicivirus and panleukopenia are also known as the “feline distemper” vaccine can offer protection with adequate vaccination.

Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis (FVR) is a highly contagious virus affecting the cat’s upper respiratory system (eyes, nose and trachea). This life-long virus can arise anytime during the lifetime of your cat. A relapse in symptoms (fever, sneezing, coughing, ocular discharge, nasal discharge, conjunctivitis and corneal ulcers, just to name a few), can appear anytime during periods of stress, lifestyle change, nutrition, health status and several other factors impacting your cat’s health.

Calicivirus, a highly contagious airborne virus is easily transmitted by sneezing, infected saliva or indirectly by objects that may have come in contact with the virus. Symptoms include fever, sneezing, conjunctivitis, inflammation and ulcers of the mouth and pneumonia.

Panleukopenia, a very contagious viral disease, can cause vomiting, diarrhea, dehydration and anemia, affecting your cat’s ability to fight off other infections. Vaccination offers the best protection against this deadly disease.”

How often does my adult cat need vaccination?


Immunity through treatment is different based on the disease. The American Association of Feline Practitioners (AAFP) recommends vaccinating against feline panleukopenia (distemper), feline viral Rhinotracheitis, and feline Calicivirus every three years. They also suggest that cats at a high risk of exposure to these diseases may benefit from more frequent vaccinations. It is important to speak with your veterinarian to discuss your pet’s individual exposure risk. Whatever vaccinations you decide on with your veterinarian, different vaccines (even different versions of one type of vaccine) require different re-vaccination/booster schedules. Your cat’s health and lifestyle will change over time, and the conversation around vaccines will be reassessed at each annual exam.

Are there any risk associated with vaccines?


Vaccination is the best way to protect your cat against disease, and your kitty’s safety is our top priority. Deciding which vaccines your cat receives requires an understanding of the benefits and associated risks that are involved. A discussion with your veterinarian around vaccination can help you decide which vaccines are most appropriate. There is always a risk with any injection including vaccines, in most cases, the benefits usually outweigh the risks. Our Veterinarians follow the American Association of Feline Practitioners recommended guidelines by using non-adjuvanted vaccines as the risk is lower for injection site sarcoma and a smaller volume as well. Other risks can include minor adverse effects such as a delayed localized tissue reaction, vomiting, fever and or diarrhea. More severe reactions, although rare, can include anaphylaxis.