Cat Vaccinations are vital for pet health
Cat vaccinations protect our feline friends from contracting or passing on infectious diseases and health conditions. Like all pets, cats are susceptible to many life-threatening diseases, but with advancements in veterinary healthcare have dramatically reduced the number of cases. Due to this reduction and by way of them not being highly reported, it is easy to assume that they are no longer a threat to cats, but they still do remain a constant danger, meaning that having the correct and properly timed dog vaccinations is the best way to keep your cat safe.
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Cat Vaccinations - how they work
The type of vaccines Sandhole Vets recommends will be based on your cat's lifestyle, risk factors and current guidance. Modern vaccines give protection to multiple diseases with just one or two injections.
The vaccines for cat vaccinations contain harmless (either weakened or dead) variants of viruses and other infectious agents. When a cat is vaccinated, the immune system responds by generating a protective mechanism by forming antibodies. If your cat becomes exposed to the actual disease later, those antibodies will prevent the disease from developing further.
Booster Vaccinations for Cats
Cat vaccinations don't give lifelong immunity from diseases, so regular cat booster vaccinations are recommended. If your cat is registered with us, we can send your reminders for when they are due, helping you to stay on top of your cat's healthcare. It is also a good opportunity for your cat to have a full health check at the same time.
Diseases that Cat Vaccinations help prevent:
- Cat flu (feline herpes virus and feline calicivirus)
- Feline infectious enteritis
- Feline leukaemia virus
Vaccinations for Kittens
The primary vaccination course for puppies helps to overcome the remaining antibody protection that they still have from their mothers. The first vaccination is usually given at eight weeks old, followed by a second two to four weeks later (no earlier than 10 weeks old), allowing for an early socialisation programme. At the second puppy vaccination appointment, we will provide you with your certificate of vaccination.
Annual boosters need to be taken to make sure immunity remains effective.
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Cat Vaccinations FAQ section
Do indoor cats need vaccinations?
Indoor cats still require vaccines, but this may be a reduced course that only includes cat flu and enteritis. However, many indoor cat owners still have a full vaccination course each year just in case their cat decides to go out exploring!; when it comes to harmful diseases, the risks aren't worth taking.
Should you vaccinate an older cat?
As long as your vet feels that your cat is fit and healthy, we would always recommend vaccinations for your cat. These vaccinations provide protection from harmful diseases.
What happens if you don't vaccinate your cat?
Deciding not to vaccinate runs the risk of your cat contracting various dangerous harmful diseases. If you also want to travel with your cat or need them to stay in boarding facilities or catteries, most sites require up to date vaccination status and will not accept unvaccinated animals. A simple yearly vaccination course can help to protect your cat so they can live a happy and healthy life.
How often do cats need vaccinations?
Cats typically require 'booster' vaccinations annually. While initial vaccinations in kittenhood are crucial, maintaining consistent vaccinations throughout their lives is equally important for their health
Are there any schemes/offers at Sandhole Vets to help with covering the cost of my cat's vaccinations?
Our Friends and Family Plan offers the best value way to vaccinate your pet to ensure they have the preventative health protection they need over their lifetime. Being a member allows you the opportunity to spread the cost over 12 months whilst also receiving discounts on other services at Sandhole Veterinary Centre.
Please contact us if you would like further information on vaccination programmes for your pet or our Friends and Family plan.
I have heard that cat vaccines are risky, and to avoid them – is that true?
Any veterinary procedure that is performed can carry some sort of risk; however, in the case of pet and dog vaccinations, it is important to remember that the benefits of being vaccinated greatly outweigh the risks. Vaccination reactions are rare, and where they do occur, they are mostly short-term and mild. Reactions of this nature show that the vaccine is effectively stimulating the immune system.
The team at Sandhole Veterinary Centre is always happy to talk to you about the benefits and risks of vaccinating your dog to help identify the most suitable strategy as part of their wider preventative healthcare programme
