Vaccinations

Vaccinations are an important part of your cat’s health. These vaccines help to prevent your furry family member from getting possibly fatal diseases. During your visit, we can help tailor the best vaccine protocol for your furry loved one.

Does my indoor cat need to be vaccinated?

Yes, your indoor only cats are still at risk. If you have dogs at home, they can bring stuff in from outside on their fur. We can also bring things in on our shoes and clothes. The rabies vaccine is required by law for all pets as well.

What are FVRCP and core vaccines for cats?

The FVRCP vaccine is a combination vaccine that covers Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis, Calicivirus, and Panleukopenia. These diseases affect the respiratory tract, as well as the gastrointestinal tract. This vaccine and the rabies vaccine are your core vaccines. If your cat goes outside even occasionally, we strongly recommend that they receive a Leukemia vaccine.

How often does my adult cat need to be vaccinated?

Depending on your cat’s lifestyle, your cat should be vaccinated every 1-3 years. As soon as they have received all of their kitten vaccines and a final booster for the FVRCP vaccine has been given at 1 year of age, they can transition to an every 3-year protocol.

Please note that the rabies vaccine and Leukemia vaccine are given yearly.

Are there any risks associated with cat vaccines?

All vaccines carry risk, although it is uncommon. One of the most common vaccine reactions to keep an eye out for is lethargy (sleepiness). Some patients can experience slight pain at the injection site. If this occurs, we can provide some pain relief that your cat can administer at home. Other reactions to watch out for are swelling, hives, and itchiness. It is not as common, and if noted, make sure to call your veterinary clinic immediately. The last and rarest reaction is anaphylaxis. This reaction usually occurs within 10-15 minutes, and if observed, your cat requires urgent medical care.