What diseases do cat vaccinations protect against? - briefly
Cat vaccinations protect against diseases such as feline panleukopenia, feline herpesvirus, feline calicivirus, and rabies. They also help prevent feline leukemia virus (FeLV) and chlamydia in at-risk cats.
What diseases do cat vaccinations protect against? - in detail
Cat vaccinations are essential for safeguarding feline health by providing immunity against several serious and potentially fatal diseases. One of the primary diseases vaccinated against is feline panleukopenia, also known as feline distemper. This highly contagious viral infection attacks the gastrointestinal system, bone marrow, and immune system, leading to severe dehydration, vomiting, diarrhea, and often death, particularly in kittens. Another critical disease is feline herpesvirus, which causes upper respiratory infections and can lead to chronic eye and nasal issues. Feline calicivirus, another common respiratory pathogen, is also included in core vaccinations. This virus can cause oral ulcers, fever, and joint pain, and in severe cases, pneumonia. Rabies is another vital disease covered by vaccinations, as it is zoonotic and poses a risk to both cats and humans. Rabies affects the nervous system and is almost always fatal once symptoms appear. Additionally, vaccinations protect against feline leukemia virus (FeLV), a retrovirus that weakens the immune system, leading to anemia, lymphoma, and secondary infections. FeLV is particularly dangerous for outdoor cats or those in multi-cat households. Some vaccines also target feline chlamydiosis, a bacterial infection causing conjunctivitis and respiratory issues, and feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV), which compromises the immune system over time. By administering these vaccinations, cat owners can significantly reduce the risk of their pets contracting these diseases, ensuring a longer, healthier life for their feline companions.