What are cats vaccinated against with? - briefly
Cats are vaccinated against diseases such as feline panleukopenia, calicivirus, rhinotracheitis, and rabies to ensure their health and prevent the spread of infections.
What are cats vaccinated against with? - in detail
Cats are vaccinated against a range of diseases to protect their health and prevent the spread of infectious illnesses. The core vaccines for cats typically include protection against feline panleukopenia (also known as feline distemper), feline herpesvirus (FHV-1), and feline calicivirus (FCV). Feline panleukopenia is a highly contagious and often fatal viral disease that affects the gastrointestinal tract, immune system, and nervous system. The vaccine for this disease is highly effective and is considered essential for all cats. Feline herpesvirus and feline calicivirus are major causes of upper respiratory infections in cats, leading to symptoms such as sneezing, nasal discharge, and conjunctivitis. Vaccination helps reduce the severity and frequency of these infections. Additionally, cats are often vaccinated against rabies, a fatal viral disease that affects the central nervous system and can be transmitted to humans. Rabies vaccination is legally required in many regions due to its public health significance. Depending on the cat’s lifestyle and risk factors, non-core vaccines may also be recommended. These include vaccines for feline leukemia virus (FeLV), which suppresses the immune system and can lead to cancer or severe anemia, and feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV), which weakens the immune system over time. Vaccines for chlamydia, bordetella, and other pathogens may be considered for cats in high-risk environments, such as multi-cat households or shelters. Vaccination protocols are tailored to each cat’s age, health status, and exposure risks, with initial vaccinations typically starting in kittenhood and followed by regular boosters throughout the cat’s life. Proper vaccination not only safeguards individual cats but also contributes to the overall health of the feline population by reducing the prevalence of infectious diseases.