By Kellie Tickner, Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital Administrator
Vaccinations are essential to keeping your cat healthy, protecting them from potentially fatal diseases and preventing the spread of infections within the feline community. With the recent vaccine shortage now easing, it’s critical to resume your cat’s vaccination schedule to ensure they remain protected.
Why Vaccinations Are Crucial Vaccinating your cat doesn’t just protect them—it also safeguards other cats in your home and community. Vaccines stimulate the immune system to create antibodies, preventing serious illnesses and reducing the risk of outbreaks. If your cat requires boarding, vaccinations must be administered at least two weeks before admission, making timely vaccinations essential.
• Feline Infectious Enteritis (Feline Panleucopenia): This highly contagious and life-threatening disease can affect cats of all ages, with kittens being particularly vulnerable. Symptoms include fever, vomiting, diarrhea, weight loss, and, in severe cases, sudden death. Pregnant cats may face complications, and surviving cats can become carriers, posing ongoing risks.
• Feline Respiratory Disease (Cat Flu): Caused by viruses such as Feline Herpes Virus 1 (FHV1) and Feline Calicivirus (FVC), this condition leads to symptoms similar to a severe cold, including sneezing, eye or nasal discharge, fever, and ulcers. Severe cases can result in permanent eye or lung damage, and untreated infections may become fatal.
• Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV): This virus spreads through close contact, such as fighting or grooming, and weakens the immune system, making cats more susceptible to infections and certain cancers. It’s comparable to immunodeficiency syndromes in humans and poses a significant health risk.
Additional vaccinations may also protect against Feline Chlamydia and Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV), depending on your cat’s lifestyle and risk factors.
Resuming Your Cat’s Vaccination Schedule While the vaccine shortage disrupted schedules, it’s now time to get back on track. If your cat’s vaccinations were delayed, consult your veterinarian to determine the best course of action. Some cats may require additional doses to restore their immunity, especially if they are overdue or need vaccinations for boarding.
If you’re uncertain about your cat’s vaccination status or need to schedule an appointment, contact Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital at 4736 2027. Keeping your cat’s vaccinations up to date is a proactive step toward ensuring their long-term health and happiness.
