Cat Vaccinations

Many feline diseases can now be prevented through vaccination. A vaccination schedule prepared by your veterinarian can greatly contribute to good health and a longer life span for your cat. Below are the most important diseases for which vaccines are currently available:

RABIES

One of the world’s most publicized and feared diseases, rabies is almost always fatal. Rabies virus attacks the brain and central nervous system and is transmitted to humans chiefly through the bite of an infected animal. In 1981-82 for the first time, more cats than dogs were reported to have rabies. This situation has led many authorities to recommend rabies vaccination for all cats.

FELINE PANLEUKOPENIA (Feline Distemper)

Feline distemper is among the most widespread of all cat diseases, and is extremely contagious. Characterized by fever, loss of appetite, vomiting and diarrhea, feline panleukopenia causes high death loss, particularly among kittens.

FELINE VIRAL RHINOTRACHEITIS (FVR)

This highly contagious respiratory disease is characterized by sneezing, loss of appetite, fever and eye inflammation. As the disease progresses, a discharge is noticeable from both nose and eyes.

FELINE CALICIVIRUS (FCV)

Another serious feline respiratory infection, this often occurs simultaneously with feline viral rhinotracheitis. Signs of infection are similar to FVR (fever, loss of appetite, nasal discharge), but calicivirus-infected cats may also have ulcers on the tongue.

FELINE PNEUMONITIS

This infection is caused by the organism Chlamydia psittaci. Signs of pneumonitis are similar to those of FVR and FCV (sneezing, fever, loss of appetite, nasal discharge and inflamed eyes).

FELINE LEUKEMIA

Feline leukemia is a viral disease which can take several forms. Some cats have transient infections with few ill effects. Others have persistent infections varying in severity, some of which may be fatal over time. Extensive scientific research has shown no relationship between feline leukemia and human leukemia.

FIP

FIP is a complex disease of cats caused by feline infectious peritonitis virus. The most commonly diagnosed clinical manifestation is accumulation of fluid within the peritoneal cavity. FIP vaccine is administered as nasal drops.

NOTE: Feline Panleukopenia (Feline Distemper), Viral Rhinotracheitis (FVR), Calicivirus (FCV), Pneumonitis and Leukemia are all available in one injection. A series of injections are required to develop the high level of immunity required in our area. Rabies must be given as a separate injection.