A major misconception about indoor cats is that they do not require any vaccinations. Although your feline friend may be a house cat, they still can potentially contract serious infectious diseases. Vaccines not only protect your cat from potentially deadly diseases but also prevent the diseases from spreading to other pets and people. Our Family Veterinary Care of Oakdale team explores the key vaccines your cat needs, the diseases they protect against, and why they’re so crucial.

Why vaccinations are important for your cat

Vaccines stimulate your cat’s immune system to produce antibodies against specific diseases. This means that your cat’s body will be better prepared to fight off any future disease. Vaccinations are a proactive measure to help your cat lead a healthy and happy life.

Core feline vaccinations

Core vaccinations are recommended for all cats, no matter their lifestyle. They protect against highly infectious diseases that can seriously impact the health of cats, other animals, or people, and are therefore essential.  

Feline viral rhinotracheitis and feline calicivirus

Feline viral rhinotracheitis (FVR) and feline calicivirus (FCV) are responsible for about 90% of upper respiratory infections in cats. If your cat contracts one or both of these viruses, they may develop the following signs:

  • Sneezing
  • Nasal and eye discharge
  • Conjunctivitis
  • Lethargy
  • Anorexia
  • Oral ulcers 

Infected cats often become lifelong carriers and may experience flare-ups when they are stressed or ill.

Typically, kittens receive the first dose of this combination vaccine at 6 to 8 weeks of age, followed by boosters every three to four weeks until they are about 16 weeks old. Adult cats need booster shots annually or every three years, depending on the vaccine type.

Feline panleukopenia

Feline panleukopenia is caused by a highly contagious parvovirus that affects a cat’s gastrointestinal (GI) tract, bone marrow, and immune system. Panleukopenia is often fatal, especially in kittens, but can also be deadly to older, unvaccinated cats. Clinical signs include vomiting, diarrhea, dehydration, and lethargy.

The vaccination schedule mirrors FVR and FCV, as the panleukopenia vaccine is generally part of the combination FVR and FCV vaccine, called an FVRCP vaccine. 

Rabies

Rabies is a viral disease that affects the central nervous system of mammals, including people, and is always fatal once signs develop. Vaccination is not only essential for your cat’s health but often is required by law.

Kittens typically receive their first rabies vaccination at around 12 to 16 weeks of age, with boosters given annually or every three years, depending on local regulations and vaccine type.

Noncore feline vaccines

Noncore vaccines are recommended based on your cat’s lifestyle, environment, and exposure risk. They protect against diseases that may not be as widespread or severe as those covered by core vaccines, but they are still important in certain situations.

Feline leukemia virus 

Feline leukemia virus (FeLV) is a viral infection that can cause immune suppression, anemia, and lymphoma and is one of the leading causes of illness and death in cats. Spread through close contact, such as grooming and sharing food or water bowls, FeLV can infect an entire feline family. Test a new cat to verify a negative FeLV status before introducing them to your current cats, to keep them safe.

FeLV vaccinations are considered core vaccinations for kittens or cats with unknown vaccination histories. Kittens receive their first FeLV vaccine at 8 weeks, followed by a booster four weeks later. Once a cat has received their initial FeLV vaccinations, which are not considered core vaccinations, annual boosters are recommended based on exposure risk.

Bordetella 

Bordetella bronchiseptica is a bacterial infection that causes respiratory illness, particularly in young kittens. This vaccine is especially recommended for cats who frequently contact other cats, such as those in boarding facilities, shelters, or catteries.

Kittens can be vaccinated as early as 4 weeks of age, with boosters as needed, based on risk factors and vaccine type.

Vaccinating your cat is a fundamental aspect of responsible pet ownership. Stay informed about the necessary vaccines and maintain a regular vaccination schedule to protect your cat from serious diseases and to contribute to the overall health of the feline community. Give our Family Veterinary Care of Oakdale team a call to set up your cat’s next vaccination visit.