What are kittens vaccinated against? - briefly
Kittens are typically vaccinated against feline panleukopenia (FPV), feline calicivirus (FCV), and feline herpesvirus type 1 (FHV-1). These vaccines protect against common and potentially life-threatening diseases in cats.
What are kittens vaccinated against? - in detail
Kittens are typically vaccinated against several infectious diseases to ensure their health and well-being as they grow into adulthood. The most common vaccines administered to kittens include:
-
Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis (FVR): This vaccine protects against feline herpesvirus type 1, which causes upper respiratory infections and is highly contagious among cats. Symptoms may include sneezing, runny nose, conjunctivitis, and loss of appetite.
-
Feline Calicivirus (FCV): This vaccine guards against the feline calicivirus, another common cause of upper respiratory infections in cats. It can lead to symptoms such as sneezing, nasal discharge, oral ulcers, and sometimes even limping due to inflammation of the joints.
-
Feline Panleukopenia (FPV): Often referred to as feline distemper, this virus is extremely contagious and can be fatal in kittens. It attacks the intestinal tract and bone marrow, causing symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, and a severe drop in white blood cells.
-
Feline Leukemia (FeLV): This vaccine is optional but recommended for outdoor cats or those living in multi-cat households. FeLV is a retrovirus that can lead to anemia, cancer, and immunosuppression, making the cat more susceptible to other infections.
-
Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV): Similar to FeLV, this vaccine is also optional but important for cats at risk due to their lifestyle or environment. FIV can cause immune system damage, leading to various secondary infections and diseases over time.
-
Bordetella Bronchiseptica: This bacterium contributes to upper respiratory infections in cats and is often included in combination vaccines for FVR and FCV. It causes symptoms similar to those of viral infections, such as coughing and sneezing.
-
Rabies: Though not typically considered a core vaccine for indoor cats, the rabies vaccine is crucial for outdoor cats and those living in areas with a high prevalence of rabies. The virus attacks the nervous system and is always fatal once symptoms appear.
Vaccination schedules usually start at 6-8 weeks of age and continue with booster shots every 3-4 weeks until the kitten reaches 16 weeks old. Regular boosters are then given annually or as recommended by a veterinarian to maintain immunity against these diseases throughout the cat's life. It is essential to consult with a veterinarian to determine the appropriate vaccination plan tailored to the specific needs and lifestyle of each kitten.