Most people don’t want to take their cat to the veterinarian, yet it is a crucial way to keep their cat as healthy as possible. Not only will your veterinarian take a good look at your cat, but he or she will also make sure that your cat is fully protected with vaccines.
While you don’t want to over-vaccinate your cat, you also don’t want to have to worry about him or her getting sick. You may be unsure about which vaccines your cat really needs. You may not want to give any, since your cat doesn’t even go outside. This may not be very clear for many pet owners.
Here are some vaccines that your veterinarian may recommend for your cat.
Your cat needs to have a Rabies vaccine.
This disease, which is caused by the rabies virus, affects the brain and central nervous system. It is transmitted by direct contact with saliva from an infected animal. This is usually through a bite.
The rabies vaccine is so important because it can also affect humans. It is also deadly! Many states require all cats to have a rabies vaccine to keep everyone healthy!
The distemper vaccine is a single vaccine that covers a variety of diseases.
Its initials can help you remember all the different diseases that a distemper vaccine prevents. FVRCP stands for:
- Feline viral rhinotracheitis (FVR) can be fatal to kittens and older cats. It causes cats to sneeze and develop a fever. Many cats exhibit symptoms of a runny nose and eyes. Cats who have FVR often lose their appetite.
- Feline calicivirus is a severe respiratory infection often associated with FVR. Cats will have nasal congestion and sneezing. Many cats also develop painful ulcers in their mouth, which can lead to drooling. These cats often get a fever and don’t feel very well.
- Panleukopenia is a contagious disease that can be deadly for kittens. Signs include vomiting, diarrhea, fever, and depression.
You may want to consider vaccinating your cat against Feline Leukemia.
This virus interferes with your cat’s immune system, meaning that he or she won’t be able to fight infection as well as usual. This disease is spread through saliva, urine, and blood. Cats get it by sharing food bowls, grooming, and bites.
If your cat is an outdoor cat, you should consider getting the leukemia vaccine to keep them as safe as possible.
Another disease to consider with outside cats is Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV).
Unfortunately, there is no vaccine for this disease and no cure. Even worse, many cats that have FIV, also have feline leukemia.
Feline immunodeficiency virus is also transmitted through saliva. Biting, scratching, and fighting (which is common with outside cats) will spread this disease from cat to cat.
For this reason, you should check every new cat (and kitten) that you get for Feline Leukemia and FIV. This is no longer a death sentence. Some of these cats can live healthy lives, as long as you take proper precautions. You will need to keep your cat inside and separate from all other cats. You won’t be able to let him or her outside, as you would help spread these diseases.
The best way to ensure your cat is fully vaccinated is to consult with your veterinarian. Let him or her know about your cat’s risk factors (including how many cats are in the home and whether he or she ever goes outside)! Then, you can decide together which vaccines your cat actually needs.
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Please note, the information provided is for educational and informational purposes only. Although I am a veterinary professional, this blog should not be used as a substitute for professional veterinary advice.
If your pet is experiencing a medical problem or concern, please contact a veterinary health professional immediately.
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