What vaccines does my cat need and what are core vaccines and what are non-core vaccines?
Great question. There are a set of veterinary guidelines that we use to decide what vaccinations in cats are core versus non-core. These guidelines state that rabies and FVCP, more commonly known as feline distemper, are considered our core vaccines and should be recommended for all of our cats regardless of their lifestyle. On the other hand, non-core vaccines are based on lifestyle and include the feline leukemia virus, FIV virus and FIV vaccine, and Bordetella. However, there is some crossover with the leukemia vaccine, and it's now considered core for all cats under the age of 1 year old. It's important to understand that not all non-core vaccine options for cats are offered in every clinic, and supply may be based on geographic location.
What cat vaccinations are required by law?
The only vaccine required by law is rabies, and it must be given by a licensed veterinarian, such as myself. It's very important to make sure your cat receives this vaccine by 16 weeks of age to comply with the law. There are two different types of the rabies vaccine. We've got a regular formulation and a Purevax formulation. The Purevax is a little more expensive, about $45 at our clinic, versus the regular, which is about $25. The benefit of Purevax is that it includes components that reduce the risk of reactions, making it safer. It just depends on what you're looking for. Both vaccines are safe, but the Purevax needs to be boostered every year, whereas the regular rabies vaccine can be given every 3 years after the initial one-year vaccine. The first rabies vaccine of either kind is a one-year vaccine, whether it's Purevax or regular. After that, Purevax is given every year, and regular rabies is given every 3 years.
When should I start vaccinating my kitten?
Kittens can receive their first vaccines when they are between 6 to 8 weeks old, with boostering those vaccines every 3 to 4 weeks until they're around 16 weeks of age. If your kitten is over 16 weeks, then it should receive the first vaccines as soon as possible, with a booster in 3 to 4 weeks to complete that series. However, rabies, as we've said before, is the only vaccine that does not require a series of shots and is boostered every one or three years depending on the labeled vaccine duration. All our vaccines need to be boostered every year after the initial series to be considered current unless it's a long-duration FRCP vaccine, which would need to be boostered every 3 years.
What are the benefits of vaccinating my cat?
Vaccinating your cat is very beneficial because it provides protection from diseases that can be fatal, including rabies, panleukopenia, and leukemia. It can also protect them from succumbing to or reducing the impact of several very common pathogens in the upper respiratory complex, including the calicivirus, herpes, and Bordetella. Overall, vaccinating your cat will give them the best chance to live a long, healthy, and happy life.
Are there any risks or side effects associated with cat vaccines?
With every vaccine, there's always a risk of an adverse reaction, which can include vomiting, diarrhea, facial swelling, hives, and even anaphylaxis. There have also been some uncommon instances in which tumors have arisen from vaccine sites but are now thought to be a risk with any injection a cat can receive, not just vaccines. While these risks are low, they can happen to any individual, and it's important to monitor closely for several days after any vaccine or injection is given. If any adverse reactions occur, seek veterinary care immediately. More common side effects include lethargy, sleepiness, soreness or pain at the injection site, or a persistent little bump or swelling. These side effects are usually short-lived, most resolving within 24 hours after the vaccine. However, if any persist for more than several days, inform your primary veterinarian.
How do I know if my cat is up to date on vaccinations?
If you're unsure of which vaccines your cat is up to date on, please reach out to your primary veterinarian, the adoption facility, the shelter, or the previous owner who should be able to provide you with this information. It's important to keep diligent records to ensure your cat doesn't miss anything that's required or necessary, including vaccines and other needs.
Can my cat receive multiple injections at one time?
Your cat can receive multiple vaccines at once and usually handles them well. The most your cat should receive at any one time is four vaccines, including the FVRCP, leukemia, rabies, and Bordetella. This can be a lot for some individuals and may increase the risk of a reaction. However, vaccine reactions are based on the individual, and some cats may handle all at once while others cannot. Sometimes it's best to utilize longer-duration vaccines to limit the number of vaccines your cat receives each year, along with choosing to separate vaccines into several visits throughout the year. It's highly recommended to work closely with your veterinarian to find the best plan for your cat's care.
How do I prepare my cat for an appointment where they're going to get a vaccination?
That's a great question. You want to know what you're getting into, right? It's always best to do your research and come prepared with any questions you may have. Veterinary visits can be stressful, chaotic, and overwhelming, and the amount of information covered may not allow time to address everything, which can be confusing. My best advice is to know what you want but be willing to listen and reconsider if necessary. Guidelines and recommendations may change over time to improve veterinary care. Embrace change and ensure you're comfortable enough with your veterinarian to trust their judgment and recommendations.
Can indoor cats skip certain vaccinations?
If your cat is strictly indoor, there should at least be a conversation about the potential risk factors of not vaccinating for certain non-core vaccines. An informed choice can be made on whether or not to pursue vaccination for non-core vaccines, as long as you understand the risk. I'm stressing the word non-core when discussing which vaccines you can opt out of. Every cat, whether indoor, outdoor, or both, should receive rabies and feline distemper vaccines. The risk of succumbing to severe illness and even death is too high, and it should be greatly considered before choosing not to vaccinate for core vaccines.
How do vaccinations help prevent feline diseases?
A vaccine works by exposing the body to a weakened or inactive form of a pathogen called an antigen. This triggers the immune system to produce antibodies against that antigen. Once antibodies are produced, they're ready to fight off that antigen if the body is ever exposed to it again. This process prevents or lessens the severity of the infection or disease and therefore protects against succumbing to more of the fatal consequences of illness. That's a good thing.
What is the difference between a vaccine and a titer test for cats?
A vaccine is the antigen itself that triggers the immune system to make antibodies, while a titer is the amount of antibody against that antigen that's already been produced by the body. Titers can be performed by taking a blood sample from your cat and analyzing the amount of antibodies the immune system has already built towards a specific disease or antigen. Titers provide a specified number, and it's thought that if the titer is over a certain amount, then the vaccine is not needed at that time. Titers can be performed in cats but are often more expensive, take more time, and may not be considered appropriate vaccination status by some facilities and hospitals. Titers have their place and should be discussed with your primary veterinarian before pursuing them.
Can my cat be vaccinated if it has a health condition?
Great question. Since vaccines challenge the immune system, they can be riskier in immunocompromised cats or any cat with a lowered immune system due to disease. If the immune system isn't strong enough to mount the appropriate response, there can be more severe consequences. It's best to hold off on vaccines if your cat is currently sick or has an uncontrolled disease. In cases with cats that have ongoing health conditions, it's important to assess if their condition is controlled before considering vaccination. Health conditions do not prevent cats from being vaccinated, but caution and careful consideration of your cat's current health status with your primary veterinarian is essential for finding the best plan for your cat moving forward, emphasizing the importance of examinations as well.
What vaccines are required for boarding or traveling with my cat?
Different hospitals and boarding facilities have different rules and policies to ensure your cat will be safe and protected during their stay. At our hospital, all cats are required to be vaccinated for rabies, feline distemper, and Bordetella before boarding. However, other hospitals might not share the same recommendation since feline Bordetella is technically a non-core vaccine and not offered everywhere. It's best to reach out to your primary veterinarian or hospitals for their specific policies regarding boarding.
What is the cost of cat vaccinations and is it covered by pet insurance?
Great question. Vaccines for cats can vary quite a bit in price, anywhere from $20 to $60 per vaccine. The cost usually correlates with geographic location, the cost of living, supply and demand trends, and other factors. All insurance is different, and depending on what type of insurance plan you purchase, some, all, or even none of your pet's vaccines could be covered. It's important to pick an insurance plan that is right for you because there is no one-size-fits-all. Carefully review what your plan includes and, even more importantly, what it excludes. There is a lot of fine print and loopholes in some policies, and it takes time to comb through each section to ensure you understand exactly what you're paying for and manage your expectations appropriately. Ask lots of questions.
What happens if I don't want to vaccinate my cat?
In the end, it's your choice to vaccinate your cat or not. However, it is also your responsibility as a pet parent to do what is right by your cat's health along with abiding by state and federal regulations regarding vaccines. We will never force you to vaccinate your cat. But as much as you have the right to say no, we do as well. The policies we put in place for having your cat stay in our hospital or boarding facility are only to ensure a safe and healthy environment for everyone involved. Our main goal is to provide the best care that we can for your pet, and no recommendation is made without careful consideration of your pet's health. If you have any questions about your cat's vaccination status or needs, give us a call at 704-802-1280, and we can help you assess your environment and determine the right schedule for your cat and your lifestyle.
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