CAT VACCINATIONS:
5 WAY/UPPER RESPIRATORY VIRUSES=
This disease complex is the most common problem in young kittens and sick cat populations. We can start the protection from this at 8 weeks of age and with monthly boosters through 12 weeks of age, so your kitten will be able to fight this disease complex if exposed. Adult cats need to be boostered annually to maintain good immunity. Even though most indoor cats are healthier, they can become exposed to these respiratoy problems through an open screen. Transmission is through direct contact, but also through aerosol (sneezing) contact.
FVRCP-C is the vaccine we use and this includes the most common and the most dangerous viral diseases that our cats come in contact with. It can cause permanent eye disease, sinus damage, or even death.
-Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis
-Chlamydia Virus
-Panleukopenia Virus
-Calici Virus
FELINE LEUKEMIA VIRUS=
Feline leukemia virus can cause cancer in cats! More often, however, it causes the cat's immune system to be wiped out so your cat succumbs to routine infections. It is spread through close contact with infected cats or some kittens can be born with it. It can be tested for by a simple blood test. This test is recommended for sick cats and cats that you adopt and plan to bring into a multi-cat household. A positive test is not an instant death sentence, however, because some cats can clear the virus from their system within 6 to 8 months. Sick cats that test positive are in another disease category and should be treated as if they have a defective immune system. They will need special nursing care and intensive medical management for the rest of their life.
Vaccinating properly for this disease is often not done. The timing must be strictly adhered to in order for your cat to build up protective immunity. The first time a cat is vaccinated with feline leukemia vaccine it requires a second booster within 3 to 5 weeks and the cat must be at least 12 weeks old at that last booster. Annual single shot vaccination is continued as the cat's lifestyle dictates. Strictly indoor cats ( they don't even live with cats that go outdoors) do not need annual revaccination nor is it feasible to vaccinate feral cats that you don't plan on recapturing 3 to 5 weeks later for the booster.
RABIES VIRUS=
The reasons for vaccinating for rabies are the same for cats as for dogs, but when you think about it our cats are more likely to be exposed to wildlife reservoirs of the virus. It is not mandated by the law to vaccinate your cat, but it is rediculous not to. Some people fear that the vaccine will cause a deadly cancer at the site of injection. Those fears are unfounded now since vaccine manufacturers have reformulated their products to eliminate the potential problem. Vaccine induced sarcoma can occur with virtually any vaccine. If you were going to only vaccinate your cat for one thing, this is not the vaccine to leave behind. The same laws apply to quarantine and testing for rabies as for dogs if your cat bites someone and does not have proof of vaccination. Vaccination can start at 12 weeks and annual booster follows the first shot with every 3 year vaccination thereafter.
