What vaccinations are given to cats from birth? - briefly
Cats typically receive their first round of vaccinations between 6 to 8 weeks old, which includes the FVRCP vaccine (Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis, Calicivirus, and Panleukopenia). Booster shots are usually given at 10-12 weeks and then annually or as recommended by a veterinarian.
What vaccinations are given to cats from birth? - in detail
Cats, like humans, require regular vaccinations throughout their lives to protect against various diseases. The specific vaccines administered to cats typically depend on several factors, including their age, lifestyle, and geographical location. However, there are some core vaccines that are commonly given to kittens from birth until they reach adulthood.
From birth, kittens receive immunity from their mothers through the milk they consume. This maternal immunity is crucial for protecting newborns against diseases in their early weeks of life. However, this immunity wanes over time, and it is important to start vaccinating kittens at an appropriate age to ensure continuous protection.
The first set of vaccinations usually begins when the kitten is around 6-8 weeks old. At this stage, the following core vaccines are typically administered:
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Feline Herpesvirus (FHV): This virus causes upper respiratory infections and can be particularly severe in young kittens. Vaccination helps to prevent or reduce the severity of these infections.
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Feline Calicivirus (FCV): Similar to FHV, FCV also causes upper respiratory infections. While vaccines cannot completely eliminate the risk, they significantly decrease the likelihood and severity of infection.
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Feline Panleukopenia Virus (FPV): Also known as feline distemper, this highly contagious disease can be fatal to kittens. Vaccination is essential for preventing this serious illness.
At 12 weeks old, a booster shot is usually given to reinforce the initial vaccinations and ensure optimal protection. Additional boosters may be administered depending on the specific vaccine protocol recommended by the veterinarian.
After the initial series of vaccines, cats typically receive booster shots annually or every three years, depending on the type of vaccine used. Some veterinarians also recommend additional vaccines based on the cat's lifestyle and exposure risk, such as:
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Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV): This vaccine is particularly important for cats that spend time outdoors or live in multi-cat households. FeLV can be transmitted through contact with infected cats and can cause a variety of health issues.
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Rabies: Though not always required, rabies vaccination is highly recommended, especially if the cat goes outside or lives in an area where rabies is prevalent. Rabies is almost always fatal once symptoms appear, so prevention through vaccination is critical.
In addition to these core and optional vaccines, it's crucial for cat owners to maintain regular check-ups with their veterinarian. This ensures that the cat remains healthy and up-to-date on all necessary vaccinations throughout its life. Proper vaccination not only protects the individual cat but also contributes to the overall health of the feline population by reducing the spread of infectious diseases.