Vaccines Guide for Cats Everything You Need to Know!

In the world of veterinary care, vaccination plays a fundamental role in the care and protection of our beloved feline pets. From the smallest kittens to the most experienced life companions, everyone benefits greatly from a proper and well-planned vaccination program. Keep reading and discover its importance, the types of vaccines, the appropriate schedule, aspects to consider, side effects and much more. Go for it!

Why is it important to vaccinate my cat?

Vaccinating cats is an essential part of caring for their health and well-being. Like humans, cats are exposed to a variety of infectious diseases that can be serious and even fatal. Vaccines help protect cats against these diseases, strengthening their immune system and preventing the spread of pathogens. In addition to protecting cats themselves, vaccination plays a crucial role in public health by preventing the transmission of zoonotic diseases, which can be transmitted from animals to humans.

Types of vaccines for cats

Trivalent Vaccine

This vaccine protects against three common viral diseases in cats: feline herpesvirus, feline calicivirus, and feline panleukopenia (also known as feline parvovirus). These diseases are highly contagious and can be serious, especially in kittens and unvaccinated cats.

Feline Leukemia Vaccine

The feline leukemia vaccine protects against the feline leukemia virus (FeLV), which can cause a number of serious health problems in cats, including immune system diseases, anemia, cancer, and bone marrow-related diseases. This vaccine is especially important for cats that spend time outdoors or live with other cats that could be infected.

Rabies vaccine

The rabies vaccine in cats protects against the rabies virus, which is a deadly disease that can affect both animals and humans. The rabies vaccine is mandatory in many places and is especially important if your cat goes outside or lives in areas where rabies is endemic. In addition to protecting your cat, vaccination against rabies also helps prevent the spread of this disease to other animals and people.

What vaccines does a cat need? Calendar

The vaccination schedule for cats may vary depending on the region, the cat's lifestyle, and other factors. However, there are some common vaccines that are generally recommended for most cats:

6-8 weeks old

• Vaccine against feline herpesvirus, feline calicivirus and feline panleukopenia (FVRCP), known as trivalent vaccine.
• Chlamydia vaccine (in some cases, depending on region and risk).

12 weeks old

• FVRCP vaccine booster.
• Feline leukemia vaccine (FeLV), if necessary based on risk.

16 weeks old

• FVRCP vaccine booster.
• Feline leukemia vaccine booster, if necessary.

1 year old

• Reinforcement of all previous vaccines.
• Rabies vaccine (in some regions, may be given before 12 months).

What is done first, deworming or vaccinating?

The sequence between deworming cats and vaccinating a cat can vary depending on different factors, such as the cat's age, health history, lifestyle, and your veterinarian's specific recommendations. However, in general, it is usually recommended to deworm first and then vaccinate the cat.

In case your pet does not like going to the vet or these visits make him hyperactive, I recommend that you give him natural supplements from the Waggy's brand, such as catnip or specific products to calm cats with  CBD for cats , which can help reduce anxiety and hyperactivity. Always consult with your veterinarian before giving any supplements to your cat.

It is recommended to deworm cats first to eliminate any intestinal parasites present in their system. Intestinal parasites, such as roundworms and worms, can affect the cat's health and decrease the effectiveness of vaccines if they are present at the time of vaccination. Additionally, some parasites, such as heartworms, can be life-threatening if not treated properly.

Once the cat has been dewormed and any intestinal parasites have been eliminated, vaccination can proceed. Vaccines stimulate the cat's immune system to produce defenses against specific diseases, protecting it from future infections. It is important to remember that some vaccines require multiple doses or boosters to ensure adequate protection, so you may need to follow a specific vaccination schedule based on your veterinarian's recommendations.

How much does it cost to vaccinate a cat?

There really is no base price, however, in Mexico there are the following references:

• Vaccines for feline flu, feline panleukopenia virus, feline leukemia virus are $300.
• Reinforcement with the quintuple vaccine that costs $330.
• You must also vaccinate him against rabies, the price of this vaccine ranges between $179 and $250, so you will have to increase the price of each consultation.
• If you would like to access the sterilization of cats you will have to do it from 16 weeks of age, the approximate cost is $1000.

What should I keep in mind before vaccinating a cat?

• If your cat is sick, you should postpone vaccination until he or she has fully recovered. Vaccination may negatively affect a sick cat and may not be effective if its immune system is compromised.
• Inform your veterinarian of your cat's complete medical history, including any previous illnesses, allergies, adverse reactions to previous vaccines, or other health problems. This will help the veterinarian determine the type and frequency of vaccinations needed for your cat.
• Vaccines are administered according to a specific schedule that may vary depending on the age of the cat. It is important to follow your veterinarian's recommendations regarding the appropriate time to administer each vaccine.
• Your cat's lifestyle can influence the risk of exposure to certain diseases. Talk to your veterinarian about your cat's lifestyle to determine necessary vaccinations.
• Make sure you have an up-to-date record of your cat's previous vaccinations. This will help your veterinarian determine which vaccines are necessary at the present time and if boosters are needed.
• Make sure you comply with any legal requirements regarding cat vaccinations in your area, such as rabies vaccination.

Side effects of vaccines in cats

Vaccines are generally safe for most cats, but as with any medication, they can cause side effects in some individuals. The most common side effects of vaccines in cats are usually:

• It is common for cats to experience some pain or tenderness where the vaccine was administered. This usually goes away within a few days.
• As with pain, you may see some swelling or redness at the injection site. This is also usually temporary and does not cause major problems.
• After receiving a vaccine, some cats may feel a little more tired than usual for a day or two. This is normal and usually not a cause for concern, but it is important to keep an eye on them to make sure there are no other worrying symptoms.
• Some cats may develop a mild fever after receiving a vaccine. This is usually nothing to worry about, but if the fever persists or is high, you should contact your veterinarian.
• In rare cases, cats may experience allergic reactions to the components of the vaccine. These reactions may include facial swelling, difficulty breathing, vomiting, diarrhea, severe itching, or rashes. If you notice any of these symptoms, you should seek veterinary attention immediately.

Conclusion

In conclusion, cat vaccination is an essential component of responsible pet care. By protecting our felines against life-threatening diseases, we not only provide them with longer, healthier lives, but we also contribute to public health by preventing the spread of zoonotic diseases. It is important to remember that vaccination must be carried out properly and following the recommendations of a qualified veterinarian. This includes establishing a personalized vaccination schedule, based on the individual needs of the cat and its environment, as well as being aware of possible side effects and knowing how to act in an emergency. By committing to responsible vaccination, we are taking an active role in the protection and well-being of our cats and the entire community.