What vaccinations should a cat have? - briefly
Cats should receive core vaccinations, including those for feline panleukopenia, feline herpesvirus, and feline calicivirus, as well as rabies, to ensure their health and prevent serious diseases.
What vaccinations should a cat have? - in detail
Cats require a series of essential vaccinations to protect them from potentially life-threatening diseases. The core vaccines, which are universally recommended for all cats, include those for feline panleukopenia (also known as feline distemper), feline herpesvirus, and feline calicivirus. Feline panleukopenia is a highly contagious and often fatal disease that affects the gastrointestinal tract and immune system. The vaccine for this disease is crucial, especially for kittens, as it provides strong immunity. Feline herpesvirus and calicivirus are responsible for upper respiratory infections, which can lead to severe complications if left untreated. These vaccines are typically administered in a combination shot, often referred to as the FVRCP vaccine, which covers all three diseases.
In addition to core vaccines, non-core vaccines may be recommended based on a cat’s lifestyle, environment, and risk of exposure. The feline leukemia virus (FeLV) vaccine is one such example, particularly important for cats that spend time outdoors or live in multi-cat households where the virus can spread easily. FeLV suppresses the immune system and can lead to anemia, cancer, and secondary infections. Another non-core vaccine is for rabies, which is legally required in many regions due to its zoonotic potential, meaning it can be transmitted to humans. Rabies is a fatal disease that affects the nervous system, and vaccination is the only effective way to prevent it.
Kittens typically begin their vaccination schedule at around 6 to 8 weeks of age, with boosters given every 3 to 4 weeks until they are 16 weeks old. Adult cats require regular booster shots to maintain immunity, usually every 1 to 3 years depending on the vaccine type and local regulations. It is essential to consult a veterinarian to determine the appropriate vaccination schedule tailored to a cat’s specific needs. Vaccinations not only protect individual cats but also contribute to the overall health of the feline population by reducing the spread of infectious diseases.