Getting Your Cat Vaccinated

If you have a cat,  maybe two, or even three. Perhaps more. Then you conclusively are a cat lover. You know then how important it is to have a healthy, happy, and active cat that will live a long time.  Having a pet is a huge responsibility.  Getting your cat vaccinated is part of that responsibility.  There are several vaccinations your cat may require if you want to have a healthy, happy cat. There are four primary vaccinations you should consider.

1. Feline Leukemia- This virus is spread through saliva. And attacks your cat's immune system. Things like sharing a food or water dish, sneezing, and biting can spread the disease. A mother cat can pass it on to her unborn kittens, there is also the potential  for  new kittens to get the virus through nursing. The kittens can be vaccinated at eight weeks or older. If you have strictly an  indoor cat this vaccine is not necessary. It is a good idea to have the kittens and other cats in the household a booster shot once a year.

2. Feline Distemper- This is a highly contagious disease of cats and kittens. It is commonly spread through feces or urine of an infected cat. Cats can also become infected through food bowls, water dishes, clothes, shoes, bedding and litter boxes that have been exposed to urine or feces. Like the Feline Leukemia virus,  it can be  spread from a pregnant mother to her kittens in the womb. Feline Distemper can also be spread by fleas. Kittens can be vaccinated between eight and ten weeks old. Your cat should get a booster every one to three years. The virus can live in your house, especially carpeting and furniture, the virus can be disinfected with regular household cleaners.

3. Rabies- Cats with rabies are quite widespread. Cats get the rabies virus more often than dogs. This is an extremely important vaccination every cat owner should consider getting for your cat. Rabies is contracted through the saliva of infected animals. These animals include  dogs, raccoons, bats, coyotes and skunks. Vaccinate your kitten at eight to twelve weeks, and a booster shot should be given after the initial vaccination. Normally cats should be vaccinated every two or three years for rabies. If you have an indoor cat, it is still necessary to get vaccinated, the reason for this would be the likelihood of your cat accidently getting outside and being exposed to the rabies virus.

4. Feline Calcivitis And Feline Herpes Virus- Feline Calcivitis and Feline Herpes is one of the most common respiratory infections found in cats. Kittens are  most often infected, although cats can contract the virus as well. The virus is spread through eyes, nose and mouth. Litter boxes, bedding, food and water dishes can also be a port for transmission. This vaccine is recommended for most cats, it also requires a yearly booster shot.

As with any vaccination, there are often side effects or allergic reactions. The vaccinations are normally safe, but there is a risk of serious side effects. Some signs to watch out for are lethargy, or listlessness, swelling may occur  at the injection site, your cat is not eating, has a lack of motor skills, or the potential for seizures. You should take your cat to the vet if you recognize any of these side effects as unusual.