What are Vaccines?

Vaccines provide your pet with an enhanced level of immunity to common feline diseases. Vaccines accomplish this by introducing a small quantity of an altered or "killed" virus or bacteria into your pets bloodstream. This stimulates their immune system to produce disease-fighting antibodies which will protect your pet from these diseases in the case of a future challenge.

What should you Vaccinate your cat for?

Rabies - Rabies is an incurable viral disease affecting the central nervous system. It may be spread via the saliva of an infected animal (i.e. skunks, foxes, raccoons, bats). There is no cure for Rabies. Most municipalities require that all cats, whether indoor or outdoor receive rabies vaccines on a regular basis (see vaccine schedule). Remember that Rabies is a zoonotic disease, meaning that it can be transferred from your pet to you!

Feline Calicivirus - A virus affecting the upper respiratory tract of your cat. It is highly contagious and causes symptoms including fever, oral ulcers, and pneumonia. Chronic sneezing, runny eyes and severe gum disease may result. Cat's may also be carriers of this disease, meaning that a recovered cat may still infect others.

Feline Panleukopenia - Otherwise known as feline distemper, this virus is very contagious and resistant. It can survive for up to one whole year outside your cat's body. Symptoms include lethargy, diarrhea, vomiting, dehydration, fever and potentially death, as this virus is very difficult to treat.

Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis - A virus affecting the upper respiratory tract, which is very easily spread between cats. Symptoms include fever, anorexia, sneezing, eye/nasal discharge and coughing. Cats may also become carriers.

Feline Chlamydophila - A bacterial disease affecting your cat's respiratory system. The bacteria affects the lungs and the conjunctiva of the eyes. This bacteria is highly contagious, especially in kittens, and may be spread to humans.

Feline Leukemia - This virus can potentially affect any organ system by destroying the immune system. It is the leading cause of death in cats in North America. After infection, a cat may not show any symptoms for months to years. Testing is recommended.

Feline Immunodeficiency Virus - A virus which attacks your cat's immune system, making them susceptible to infections and disease which would not normally affect a healthy cat. There is no cure and vaccination is controversial. An infected cat may live for many years without any signs of illness.

Vaccine Schedule

Vaccination Guidelines for your Kitten:

8 weeks: FVRCP (Rhinotracheitis/Calicivirus/Panleukopenia)

11-12 weeks: FVRCP  booster, FeLV (Feline Leukemia Virus)

13-15 weeks: FeLV  booster, Rabies

And for your Adult Cat:

Annual vaccines: FVRCP, FeLV (depending on lifestyle/exposure)

3-year vaccines: Rabies (after a second yearly booster)