Why are Cat Vaccinations Important?

Protecting your cat’s long term health through vaccination is one of the most critical components of responsible cat ownership. Indoor cats may still be exposed to infectious pathogens carried indoors on clothing, shoes, hands or through contact with other animals; therefore, it is crucial to continue vaccinating your indoor cat regardless of the level of outside exposure.

Vaccines stimulate the immune response producing protective antibodies and “immune memory” allowing the body to react quickly when exposed to disease in the future. Without vaccination, cats are at a high risk of developing serious illness which may result in chronic conditions requiring costly treatments and potentially death. Diseases like FeLV and Rabies can cause irreversible damage to both pets and humans.

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Core vs. Non-Core Cat Vaccinations

The American Association of Feline Practitioners (AAFP) and other veterinary organizations classify feline vaccines as core or non-core. These classifications assist veterinarians when developing their clients’ vaccination plans according to a cat’s environment and potential for being exposed to infectious agents.

All cats should receive core vaccinations since these will provide protection from highly contagious and lethal diseases.

Several non-core vaccines are recommended depending on whether your cat goes outdoors, has contact with other cats, travels or boards.

Feline Panleukopenia (FPV)

Panleukopenia, also referred to as feline distemper, is a very severe virus that affects the small intestine and immune system of a cat. The primary symptoms include vomiting, diarrhea, dehydration, and severely decreased white blood cell count. Vaccinating your cat provides the best form of prevention.

Feline Herpesvirus (FHV-1) & Feline Calicivirus (FCV)

Herpesvirus and calicivirus are the leading causes of cat flu which is a contagious upper respiratory infection. Symptoms include sneezing, nasal discharge, eye inflammation, mouth sores, and difficulty breathing. Protection against both herpesvirus and calicivirus can be obtained through the FVRCP vaccine.

Rabies

Rabies is a deadly viral disease affecting the nervous system of mammals, it has also been shown to affect humans. Rabies is considered a public health concern and therefore rabies vaccination is frequently mandated by law.

Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV)

Leukemia virus weakens a cat’s immune system, increasing the likelihood of secondary infections, anemia, cancerous tumors etc. Transmission of leukemia primarily occurs via exchange of saliva and/or direct physical contact between cats. All kittens should receive FeLV vaccination, and at-risk adult cats should also consider receiving this vaccination.

Chlamydophila felis & Bordetella bronchiseptica

Both Chlamydophila and Bordetella can result in respiratory tract infections, particularly in multi-cat households, i.e. shelters, catteries and boarding facilities. A recommendation to vaccinate is dependent upon the level of environmental risk.

Recommended Cat Vaccination Schedule

The appropriate immunization program for a cat is based on its individual factors, including its age, lifestyle, health history and likelihood of exposure. The most effective plan for your cat will be developed by your veterinarian.

Cat Vaccine Safety and Possible Side Effects

Modern Vet Clinic has partnered with Zoetis to utilize their best quality vaccines that have been manufactured and tested for safety and efficacy. Although they are extremely safe, occasional mild side effects may appear. The common temporary adverse reactions that may show up after receiving a vaccination can include mild fever, lethargy, loss of appetite or minor swelling and redness/tenderness at the site where the injection was administered.

These usually go away quickly.

Rarely, a feline will experience anaphylactic shock (a severe and life-threatening allergic reaction) due to the administration of a vaccine. This condition needs immediate veterinary attention. Symptoms can include swelling of the face, labored breathing, vomiting and/or collapsing.

The vaccination may also be delayed if any of the following conditions exist:

Fever or illness currently present
History of previous serious reaction to vaccination
A known allergy to a component in the vaccine
Pregnant cats; modified-live vaccines are generally avoided unless specifically recommended by a veterinarian

Your veterinarian will evaluate your cat’s medical background prior to administering the first vaccination to create the most optimal vaccination program for your cat.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How often do cats need vaccinations?

Typically, kittens receive the first round of vaccinations at six to eight weeks of age. They then need booster shots approximately every four weeks thereafter until about sixteen weeks of age. Once this process has concluded, adult cats typically need to receive booster vaccinations annually. Booster frequency varies depending on the specific type of vaccine, lifestyle, etc.

Is it safe to vaccinate a pregnant cat?

In general, pregnancy makes it inadvisable to administer vaccinations, especially those containing live viruses. Your veterinarian will examine the potential benefits versus risks to make a decision regarding the necessity of vaccinating your pregnant cat based on her overall health status and the likelihood of disease exposure.

How long do cat vaccines last?

Protection duration varies among different types of vaccines and among individual cats. Protection provided by core vaccines like FVRCP and Rabies typically lasts anywhere from one to three years and beyond, whereas protection provided by non-core vaccines, such as FeLV may need to be boosted annually for at-risk cats.

How much do cat vaccinations cost in Dubai?

Packages for feline vaccinations offered through Modern Vet range from 349 AED excluding VAT. Prices may vary based on your cat’s current age, lifestyle, etc., along with recommendations made by your veterinarian concerning which vaccines are most beneficial to your cat.

What are the possible side effects of cat vaccinations?

Side effects are usually mild and short-lived. Side effects can include fatigue, mild fever, decreased appetite, or localised pain, swelling or redness at the injection site. Rarely do serious allergic reactions occur; however, these require immediate veterinary treatment.

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Modern Veterinary Clinic is the UAE’s only 24-hour multi-specialty vet hospital. What truly sets us apart is our team of highly qualified specialists, all dedicated to one goal, keeping your pets healthy. With a multinational team, years of experience, and many successful treatments, you can trust that your pet is in safe hands with us.