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Cat Vaccinations

One of the most important things you can do for your cat is to be sure her health is protected. Cat vaccinations can protect your cat from many common cat ailments.

Up until around 8 weeks old, a kitten is protected by his mother's antibodies but once she is weaned, she will need to develop her own antibodies.

On your kitten's first visit to the vet, your vet will give her a physical examination. Before your vet vaccinates your kitten, he will probably do a blood test to be sure the kitten is not already infected with Feline Leukaemia. Kittens can start a vaccination course from 9 weeks old and will routinely get injections against Cat Flu and Enteritis at 9 weeks and 12 weeks of age. Most vets will give your kitten a wormer at the start of the course of vaccinations.

Feline Flu and Enteritis 

Routine vaccinations for cats protect against Cat Flu (Calici virus and Rhinotracheitis virus) and Enteritis (Panleucopenia). Cats need 2 injections with 3 (to 6) weeks apart. Then yearly boosters are recommended. Generally vets will send a  reminder when these are due.

Feline Leukaemia

Feline Leukaemia is a deadly viral infection transmitted by close contact (fighting, licking, mating) and once established can not be cured. The infection can remain dormant for years, but when it starts to attack the immune system a variety of symptoms can appear and the animal will eventually die.  Vaccination is available and will also need 2 injections 2-3 weeks apart, these can be given at same time as Flu and Enteritis.

Catteries

Before your cat can go into a cattery, you must make sure she has at least had a booster against Flu and Enteritis in the past year. If not, you will need to take your pet to the vet at least 3-4 weeks before boarding for an initial course of injections.

Rabies

Rabies vaccination is only required for export to some countries and for getting a Pet's Passport, if you travel to countries that are covered under the Pet Travel Scheme. See http://www.defra.gov/ for more info.

An only cat who never leaves her home may not need to be vaccinated, seek advice from you local vet regarding this and other vaccination queries.

Disclaimer:  This article is supplied for informative purposes only. Seapets Ltd has done its very best to make sure that the above information is up-to-date and correct, but takes no responsibility for any consequences resulting from the following of this advice. As always, it is recommended that you consult with your local vet regarding any concerns that you may have for your pet.

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