Cat Vaccinations: What Cat Owners Need to Know
Cat vaccinations are essential to preventative pet care since they protect your feline friend from several dangerous and life-threatening illnesses. Some vaccines are even required by law since the diseases can harm other pets and humans. North Heights Veterinary Clinic in Appleton, WI, offers vaccines and other cat care services to keep your furry friend happy and healthy. Our team is here to explain the importance of vaccines in protecting your cat’s long-term health and well-being.
Importance of Vaccines for Cats
Vaccines are integral to preventative pet care since they help your cat’s immune system protect against multiple diseases. Some vaccines, like the rabies vaccine, are also required by law since these diseases can cause harm to other pets and people. Your cat will require booster shots occasionally to maintain the vaccine’s efficacy, ensuring your cat remains protected long-term. These vaccines are also safe and only produce minimal, if any, side effects. Our veterinarian can discuss possible side effects or reactions during your visit.
Core and Non-Core Vaccines for Cats
Core vaccines are vaccines recommended for all cats, regardless of them being indoor or outdoor pets. These vaccines protect against illnesses that can lead to significant or lethal health complications. Core vaccines include rabies, distemper, calicivirus, and feline herpesvirus. The vaccine for feline leukemia is a core vaccine for cats under one year of age but a non-core vaccine for cats over one year old since they have no risk of exposure.
Your veterinarian will recommend non-core vaccines based on your cat’s lifestyle and environmental factors. For example, your veterinarian may recommend the chlamydia vaccine if your cat constantly goes outdoors. Non-core vaccines include feline immunodeficiency virus, Bordetella, feline infectious peritonitis, and ringworm.
When Should Cats Start Vaccinations?
You should vaccinate kittens between 6-8 weeks old since their immune systems are still developing, making them more prone to significant illness. Your kitten typically receives antibodies from its mother’s milk that protect it from several diseases during this time. Talk with your veterinarian to determine the best time to vaccinate your kitten.
How Often Do Cats Need Vaccinations?
The frequency of vaccinations depends on the type of vaccine in question. Some vaccines require your vet to administer them yearly, while others may last a few years before needing renewal. Our vet can provide you with a schedule of vaccines for your kitten or tell you when your adult cat is due for updated vaccines.
Protect Your Cat’s Health With Vaccinations at North Heights Veterinary Clinic
Vaccinations are vital for your cat’s long-term well-being since they prevent several significant and deadly diseases, so contact North Heights Veterinary Clinic in Appleton, WI, to get your cat vaccinated today. Call us and schedule an appointment at to give your cat the pet care necessary to ensure it lives a long, healthy life.
