CAT VACCINATIONS
Vaccinations help protect cats against several serious and potentially life-threatening infectious diseases. Vaccination schedules vary according to the cat’s age, health, lifestyle, exposure risk, vaccine type, and previous vaccination history. A veterinarian should determine the appropriate vaccination schedule for each cat.
FVRCP VACCINE
FVRCP is a combination vaccine that protects against three important feline viruses:
Feline Herpesvirus Type 1 (FHV-1)
Feline herpesvirus is a highly contagious virus that commonly affects the upper respiratory tract and eyes. Signs may include sneezing, nasal discharge, eye discharge, conjunctivitis, fever, and decreased appetite. Some cats remain carriers of the virus after infection and may experience recurring signs during periods of stress or illness.
Feline Calicivirus (FCV)
Feline calicivirus is a contagious virus that primarily affects the respiratory system and mouth. It can cause sneezing, nasal discharge, fever, inflammation of the mouth, and painful ulcers on the tongue or gums. Some strains can cause more severe disease.
Feline Panleukopenia Virus (FPV)
Feline panleukopenia is a highly contagious and potentially fatal viral disease. It attacks rapidly dividing cells, particularly those in the intestinal tract and bone marrow. Infected cats may develop vomiting, diarrhea, severe dehydration, fever, weakness, and dangerously low white blood cell counts. Kittens are especially vulnerable.
Vaccination Schedule
The FVRCP series generally begins at approximately 6–8 weeks of age, with additional doses given every 3–4 weeks until approximately 16–20 weeks of age, depending on the vaccine and veterinary recommendation. Cats receiving their first vaccination after 16 weeks of age may require one or two doses depending on the vaccine type and circumstances. Revaccination intervals after the initial series depend on the vaccine used and veterinary recommendations.
RABIES VACCINE
Rabies is a fatal viral disease that affects the nervous system and can infect mammals, including people. It is transmitted primarily through the bite or saliva of an infected animal.
Signs & Symptoms
Signs can include unusual behavior, anxiety, aggression, excessive drooling, difficulty swallowing, weakness, paralysis, seizures, and progressive neurological deterioration.
Vaccination Schedule
Rabies vaccination should follow the specific vaccine manufacturer's instructions and applicable local laws and regulations. Depending on the vaccine and legal requirements, rabies vaccines may provide either one-year or three-year protection.
FELINE LEUKEMIA VIRUS (FeLV) VACCINE
Feline leukemia virus is a contagious viral infection that can weaken the immune system and contribute to anemia, other blood disorders, and certain cancers. FeLV is primarily spread through close contact with infected cats, including saliva and other bodily fluids.
FeLV vaccination is considered a core vaccine for kittens and cats younger than one year of age because young cats are more susceptible to serious consequences following exposure. For adult cats, vaccination is considered based on their individual risk of exposure.
Vaccination Schedule
For kittens, the initial FeLV series generally consists of two doses given 3–4 weeks apart, beginning as early as 8 weeks of age. A booster is generally given 12 months after the last dose of the initial series. Continued vaccination after that depends on the cat's risk of exposure and the vaccine being used.
Important Note
FeLV testing and FeLV vaccination are separate. A veterinarian may recommend testing for FeLV infection before vaccination.
CHLAMYDIA FELIS VACCINE
Chlamydia felis is a bacterial infection that primarily affects the eyes and can cause conjunctivitis, eye discharge, redness, swelling, and discomfort. Respiratory signs may also occur.
The Chlamydia felis vaccine is considered non-core, meaning it is not routinely recommended for every cat. A veterinarian may recommend it when a cat has a higher risk of exposure based on lifestyle and environment.
Vaccination Schedule
The schedule depends on the specific vaccine and the cat's individual risk. Vaccination should be determined by a veterinarian.
BORDETELLA BRONCHISEPTICA VACCINE
Bordetella bronchiseptica is a bacterium that can cause respiratory illness in cats. Infection may result in coughing, sneezing, nasal discharge, fever, and other respiratory signs.
The Bordetella vaccine is considered non-core for cats and may be considered when there is an increased risk of exposure.
Vaccination Schedule
The vaccination schedule depends on the specific product and the cat's risk of exposure. A veterinarian should determine whether vaccination is appropriate.
CORE AND NON-CORE CAT VACCINES
CORE VACCINES
Core vaccines are recommended because they protect against diseases that are widespread and can cause significant illness or death. For cats, core vaccines include:
Feline herpesvirus type 1 (FHV-1)
Feline calicivirus (FCV)
Feline panleukopenia virus (FPV)
Rabies
FeLV for kittens and cats younger than one year of age
NON-CORE VACCINES
Non-core vaccines are considered according to an individual cat's lifestyle and risk of exposure. These include:
-FeLV for certain adult cats
-Chlamydia felis
-Bordetella bronchiseptica
Not every cat requires every vaccine. Vaccination decisions should be based on the cat's age, health, lifestyle, exposure risk, previous vaccination history, vaccine type, and veterinary assessment.
Sources: American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) and American Association of Feline Practitioners (AAFP), 2020 AAHA/AAFP Feline Vaccination Guidelines.