What vaccinations should a cat have at one year old? - briefly
At one year old, cats should receive booster shots for core vaccines such as FVRCP (feline viral rhinotracheitis, calicivirus, and panleukopenia) and rabies. Additionally, depending on the cat's lifestyle and risk factors, non-core vaccines like feline leukemia virus (FeLV) may also be recommended by a veterinarian.
What vaccinations should a cat have at one year old? - in detail
At one year old, cats should be fully vaccinated against several core diseases and may also receive additional vaccines depending on their lifestyle and risk factors.
The core vaccines that are typically administered include:
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Feline Panleukopenia (FPV): This is a highly contagious viral disease that can be fatal to cats, particularly kittens. The vaccine is given annually or every three years, depending on the specific product used and the cat's risk of exposure.
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Feline Calicivirus (FCV): FCV causes upper respiratory infections and oral disease in cats. While there are multiple strains of this virus, vaccines can protect against the most common ones. This vaccine is also administered annually or every three years.
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Feline Herpesvirus Type 1 (FHV-1): FHV-1 is another cause of upper respiratory infections in cats. The vaccine helps reduce symptoms and severity but may not prevent infection entirely. This vaccine is usually given annually or every three years, depending on the cat's risk factors.
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Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV): FeLV is a retrovirus that can cause cancer and immunosuppression in cats. This vaccine is recommended for kittens and should be boosted one year later, with annual boosters thereafter depending on the cat's risk factors.
In addition to these core vaccines, veterinarians may also recommend:
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Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV): This vaccine is typically given as a series of two injections three to four weeks apart, with an annual booster recommended for cats at risk due to their lifestyle or environment.
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Bordetella bronchiseptica: This bacterium can cause respiratory disease in cats and is often included in combination vaccines. It may be recommended for cats that attend grooming salons, boarding facilities, or cat shows.
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Chlamydophila felis: This bacterium causes conjunctivitis (pink eye) in cats. The vaccine is usually given as part of a combination product and is recommended for cats at risk due to their environment or lifestyle.
It's crucial to consult with your veterinarian to determine the specific vaccination schedule that best suits your cat's needs. Factors such as the cat's age, health status, lifestyle, and local disease prevalence can influence which vaccines are recommended. Regular vaccinations are essential for maintaining your cat's health and preventing the spread of diseases in the feline population.