Against what are cats vaccinated? - briefly
Cats are commonly vaccinated against feline panleukopenia (FPV), feline calicivirus (FCV), and feline herpesvirus type 1 (FHV-1). These vaccines help protect cats from serious diseases that can be fatal or cause long-term health issues.
Against what are cats vaccinated? - in detail
Cats are typically vaccinated against several common and potentially serious infectious diseases. The core vaccines for cats include:
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Feline Panleukopenia (FPV): Also known as feline distemper, this highly contagious virus attacks the intestinal tract and bone marrow of cats, often leading to death in kittens and unvaccinated adults. Vaccination is crucial for preventing outbreaks in cat populations.
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Feline Calicivirus (FCV): This virus causes respiratory infections and oral ulcers in cats. While vaccines do not prevent all infections, they significantly reduce the severity of symptoms and decrease the likelihood of spread among cats.
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Feline Herpesvirus Type 1 (FHV-1): Also known as feline rhinotracheitis, this virus causes respiratory infections and eye disease in cats. Vaccination helps to reduce the severity of symptoms and prevent severe outbreaks, especially in multi-cat households and shelters.
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Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV): This retrovirus is associated with various diseases including anemia, cancer, and immunosuppression. Vaccination is particularly important for cats that go outdoors or have contact with infected cats, as it helps to prevent infection and reduces the risk of developing related diseases.
In addition to these core vaccines, there are other non-core vaccines that may be recommended depending on the cat's lifestyle and risk factors:
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Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV): This virus is similar to HIV in humans and causes immunosuppression in cats. Vaccination is typically advised for cats at high risk of exposure, such as those that fight or are exposed to infected cats.
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Chlamydophila felis: This bacterium causes conjunctivitis in cats. The vaccine is generally recommended for cats in catteries or shelters where the disease is prevalent.
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Bordetella bronchiseptica: While this bacterium mainly affects dogs, it can also cause respiratory illnesses in cats. Vaccination may be recommended for cats in high-risk environments like shelters and boarding facilities.
Regular vaccinations are essential for maintaining the health of individual cats and reducing the spread of infectious diseases within cat populations. It is important to consult with a veterinarian to determine the appropriate vaccination schedule based on the cat's age, health status, and lifestyle.