Vaccinations for Cats

Cats can contract several serious diseases, some of which can be fatal if left untreated. Ensuring your cat is vaccinated from an early age helps them stay healthy and protected.

Core Vaccines for Cats:

• Feline Panleukopenia Virus (FPV): Also known as feline distemper, this highly contagious viral disease can cause severe dehydration, vomiting, and diarrhea. It’s a common cause of death in unvaccinated kittens.
• Feline Herpesvirus (FHV) and Calicivirus (FCV): Both of these viruses cause respiratory infections in cats, leading to symptoms such as sneezing, nasal discharge, and eye infections.
• Rabies: In areas where rabies is prevalent, vaccinating against this viral infection is essential to protect your pet from this fatal disease, which can also spread to humans.

Non-Core Vaccines:

• Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV): While not considered core for all cats, the FeLV vaccine is recommended for cats that spend time outdoors or are in contact with other cats, as it can lead to cancers and immune system issues.
• Chlamydia: This bacterial infection can cause eye infections and respiratory problems. Vaccination is often recommended for cats in multi-cat households.

Cat Vaccination Schedule:

• Kittens: First vaccinations are usually given at 8-9 weeks of age, with boosters required 3-4 weeks later.
• Adults: Cats need booster shots annually or every three years, depending on the vaccine type.

Vaccinations for Dogs

Dogs are vulnerable to various viral and bacterial infections, many of which can be life-threatening. Vaccinations are essential to ensure your dog stays healthy throughout their life.

Core Vaccines for Dogs:

• Canine Parvovirus (CPV): A highly contagious virus causing severe gastrointestinal distress, often fatal in puppies. Symptoms include vomiting, bloody diarrhea, and dehydration.
• Canine Distemper: This virus affects the respiratory, gastrointestinal, and nervous systems of dogs, causing symptoms such as coughing, vomiting, diarrhea, and seizures.
• Canine Hepatitis (Adenovirus-2): This viral disease targets the liver and kidneys, potentially causing permanent damage.
• Rabies: Like in cats, rabies is a fatal viral infection that affects the nervous system, and vaccination is required by law in many countries.

Non-Core Vaccines:

• Leptospirosis: A bacterial infection that can spread through contaminated water and affect the liver and kidneys. Dogs that spend time outdoors or near water are at higher risk.
• Bordetella (Kennel Cough): A respiratory infection common in dogs that are boarded, attend daycare, or are frequently in contact with other dogs.

Dog Vaccination Schedule:

• Puppies: Initial vaccinations begin at 6-8 weeks of age, with boosters given every 3-4 weeks until they are 16 weeks old.
• Adults: Annual or triennial boosters, depending on the vaccine and the dog’s lifestyle.

Vaccinations for Rabbits

Rabbits, though less common as pets than cats or dogs, also need protection from infectious diseases. There are two main vaccinations that every rabbit owner should be aware of.

Core Vaccines for Rabbits:

• Myxomatosis: A viral disease spread by fleas and mosquitoes, causing severe swelling and respiratory issues. It is often fatal if left untreated.
• Rabbit Viral Haemorrhagic Disease (RVHD-1 and RVHD-2): Both strains of this viral disease are highly contagious and can cause sudden death in rabbits, often without visible symptoms.

Rabbit Vaccination Schedule:

• Kits (Young Rabbits): Vaccinations typically start at 5 weeks old, with annual boosters required to maintain protection.
• Adults: Once vaccinated, rabbits need yearly booster shots for both myxomatosis and RVHD.

Maintaining Vaccination Schedules

Adhering to vaccination schedules is vital to ensure your pets maintain their immunity. Missing boosters can leave them vulnerable to infections, so make sure you schedule regular appointments with your vet. At Vet.co.uk, we offer comprehensive vaccination services and can tailor a vaccine plan to meet your pet’s individual needs.

Why Vaccines May Need Boosters:

• Waning Immunity: Over time, the protective effect of vaccines diminishes, so boosters are necessary to “remind” the immune system how to fight specific diseases.
• Changes in Lifestyle: If your pet’s environment or habits change (e.g., more outdoor time, contact with other animals), additional vaccines or more frequent boosters may be required.

Protecting Your Pet’s Future

Vaccinating your pets is one of the most important things you can do to ensure their long-term health. Whether you have a cat, dog, or rabbit, following the recommended vaccination schedule will protect them from life-threatening diseases and keep them healthy for years to come.

At vet.co.uk, Poplar Vets and Wood Wharf Vets our veterinary professionals are here to guide you through every step of your pet’s healthcare, including vaccinations. Contact us today to schedule your pet’s next vaccine appointment!