Introduction
Cat vaccines are injectable preparations that help prevent diseases in cats caused by infection with viruses, bacteria, or other microorganisms. Vaccines work by stimulating the cat’s immune system to produce antibodies against specific diseases, building active immunity so the cat’s body can fight off infection if exposed in the future. Cat vaccines are an important part of preventative healthcare to protect the health and wellbeing of cats.
There are two main reasons why routinely vaccinating cats is so important. First, vaccines prevent infectious diseases that could make cats seriously ill, disable or kill them. Illnesses like panleukopenia, calicivirus and rabies are dangerous but can be avoided through vaccination. Second, vaccines protect against diseases that cats could spread to other pets or humans. Some diseases like rabies can be deadly if passed between species, so vaccines create a shield of protection for whole communities.
This article will provide an overview of the core and non-core vaccines cats may need based on lifestyle factors. It will outline typical vaccine schedules and booster recommendations. Side effects and exemption considerations will also be addressed. The goal is to provide cat owners a comprehensive guide to cat vaccination so they can make informed decisions about protecting their feline companions.
Core Cat Vaccines
There are four core vaccines that all cats should receive according to the latest guidelines from the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) and the American Association of Feline Practitioners (AAFP) [1]:
- Rabies – Rabies is required by law in most jurisdictions. The initial rabies vaccine is typically given at 12-16 weeks of age. Rabies vaccines must be given by a licensed veterinarian. Annual boosters are required by law in some areas.
- Panleukopenia – Also known as feline distemper, panleukopenia is a severe and often fatal viral infection. Kittens are routinely vaccinated around 6-8 weeks of age, with a booster 3-4 weeks later. Adult cats need boosters every 3 years.
- Calicivirus – Calicivirus causes upper respiratory infections and oral ulcers in cats. Kittens are vaccinated around 6-8 weeks, with a booster 3-4 weeks later. Calicivirus vaccines are boostered every 3 years in adult cats.
- Herpesvirus – Feline herpesvirus is one of the most common causes of upper respiratory infections in cats. Kittens are vaccinated around 6-8 weeks, with a booster 3-4 weeks later. Boosters are given to adult cats every 3 years.
These core vaccines are recommended for all cats, regardless of lifestyle and risk factors, due to the potential severity of these infectious diseases. According to veterinary experts, these vaccines provide essential protection that all feline patients need [2].
Non-Core Cat Vaccines
While the core vaccines are considered essential for all cats, there are some other non-core vaccines that may be recommended depending on the cat’s lifestyle and risk factors. Here are some of the most common non-core cat vaccines:
- Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV): This vaccine protects against the feline leukemia virus which is spread through saliva and nasal secretions. It is recommended for cats going outdoors, living in multi-cat households, or with exposure to other cats with unknown vaccine history. (Source)
- Chlamydia: Chlamydia felis is a type of bacteria that causes respiratory infection and conjunctivitis in cats. The vaccine may be recommended for cats at high risk such as shelters, breeders, or multi-cat homes. (Source)
- Bordetella: This vaccine protects against Bordetella bronchiseptica, one of the bacteria that can cause feline respiratory disease. It is typically reserved for high-risk cats expected to come into contact with large numbers of other cats.
These non-core vaccines provide additional disease protection depending on the cat’s individual circumstances. A vet will make vaccine recommendations based on lifestyle factors like indoor/outdoor access, exposure to other cats, travel, boarding, underlying health conditions, and local disease risks.
Lifestyle Factors
Vaccination schedules can vary for cats based on whether they are indoor vs outdoor and if they live in single cat vs multi-cat households. According to the American Association of Feline Practitioners (AAFP), all kittens should receive the same core vaccines during their first year of life regardless of lifestyle. However, beyond the first year there are some differences.
For indoor only cats living alone, the AAFP recommends continuing the core vaccines every 3 years. Indoor cats living in a multi-cat household should receive core vaccines more frequently – every year according to some vet recommendations (1). This helps prevent the potential spread of diseases in higher risk group living situations.
Outdoor cats face greater risk of exposure to infectious diseases spread by wildlife and other outdoor cats. Therefore, vets typically recommend more frequent core vaccine boosters for outdoor cats – at least every 1-2 years. Additional non-core vaccines may also be recommended depending on geographic location and risk factors (2).
In summary, while all kittens should receive the same initial vaccine series, recommendations for ongoing boosters are tailored to each cat’s individual lifestyle and risks. Indoor cats may only need boosters every 3 years, while outdoor cats living in high risk areas would need annual boosters against core and common non-core diseases prevalent in the region (3).
(1) https://www.dunnellonanimalhospital.com/site/blog/2021/05/03/indoor-cat-vaccines
(2) https://www.petmd.com/cat/general-health/what-vaccines-does-my-outdoor-cat-need
(3) https://www.montecitopethospital.com/site/blog/2021/09/15/cat-shots-kittens-outdoor-indoor
Vaccine Schedule
Vaccination schedules for cats vary based on the cat’s age and risk factors. Here are some general guidelines from veterinary associations:
Kittens
Kittens should receive a series of vaccinations starting at 6-8 weeks of age, with boosters every 2-4 weeks until 16 weeks of age. The initial series includes core vaccines like panleukopenia virus, calicivirus, rhinotracheitis virus, and rabies. Kittens may also receive non-core vaccines like feline leukemia virus if they are at higher risk.
Adult Cats
Adult cats require vaccine boosters 1 year after completing their kitten vaccine series. Core vaccines should be boosted every 1-3 years depending on risk factors. Non-core vaccines may need more frequent boosters. Low risk adult cats may be able to extend core vaccine intervals to once every 3 years based on veterinary guidance.
Discuss an appropriate vaccine schedule with your veterinarian based on your cat’s health, lifestyle, and risks.
Vaccine Boosters
According to the American Association of Feline Practitioners (AAFP) vaccination guidelines from 2020, most core vaccines for cats likely provide immunity beyond one year. Therefore, annual vaccination boosters may not be necessary in all cases. For the rabies vaccine, the label duration of immunity is usually 3 years after the initial dose given at 12-16 weeks old. However, some states require more frequent rabies boosters by law. For other core vaccines like FVRCP, a booster 1 year after the last kitten shot is recommended. After that, boosters every 3 years are considered protective.
The American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) also recommends boosters every 3 years for FVRCP vaccines after the first year. They cite studies demonstrating protection from disease challenge for at least 7-15 years with certain FVRCP vaccines. Ultimately, the ideal frequency of boosters depends on the individual vaccine, the cat’s immune function and health status, and risk factors like potential exposure and lifestyle.
According to the experts, immunity does wane over time but likely persists longer than the typical 1-3 year booster intervals. Discuss options with your vet based on your cat’s unique situation. More frequent boosters may provide added protection for cats at high risk. However, cats with minimal exposure may not require such frequent boosters after the initial series.
Vaccine Side Effects
Like any medication, vaccines do carry some risk of side effects. However, severe reactions are rare. Some potential side effects to be aware of include:
- Soreness or swelling at the injection site
- Mild fever
- Decreased appetite
- Lethargy or reduced activity level
- Vomiting or diarrhea
- Facial swelling
- Hives or rash
- Seizures (very rare)
In a small percentage of cats, sarcomas (cancerous tumors) have been reported at the vaccine injection site, particularly with the rabies vaccine. However, the risk is extremely low and the benefits of protection against deadly viruses far outweigh this small risk. To minimize it, vets recommend rotating vaccine injection sites and avoiding locations where previous lumps have occurred.
Any concerning reactions should be reported to your veterinarian right away. With proper vet care, most side effects clear up on their own within a day or two. Talk to your vet if you have any concerns about risks before vaccinating your cat.
Exemptions
There are a few cases in which veterinarians may recommend skipping or delaying certain vaccines for cats:
Kittens younger than 4 weeks old should not receive vaccines, as maternal antibodies can interfere with vaccination. Vaccines are typically started around 6-8 weeks of age.
Sick or immunocompromised cats may need to skip live vaccines until their health improves, as their immune systems may not respond properly. Killed/inactivated vaccines are safer for these cats.
A vet may advise delaying further boosters for elderly cats who have received vaccines consistently throughout life and may no longer benefit from them.
Cats with a history of adverse reactions to a specific vaccine component may be exempted from receiving that vaccine in the future. Alternative vaccine types may be used instead.
Pregnant queens should not receive live vaccines to avoid risk to the fetuses. Inactivated vaccines can be used instead when needed.
Overall exemptions are rare if a cat is healthy. But vets can tailor vaccine plans for cats with special health situations. Owners should discuss any concerns with their veterinarian.
Source: https://www.keepingitpawsome.com/cat-vaccinations/
Cost
The cost of cat vaccines can vary depending on your location, vet clinic, the specific vaccines, and other factors. However, most core cat vaccines range from $15-50 per vaccine. Non-core vaccines may be slightly more expensive. According to MarketWatch, the typical cost for common cat vaccines are:
- Rabies: $15-28
- Distemper: $17-30
- Leukemia: $25-45
Some clinics offer discounted rates for kitten vaccine packages that include a series of core shots. Adult cats may require vaccine boosters every 1-3 years which cost around the same per vaccine. Your vet may also recommend additional non-core vaccines depending on your cat’s lifestyle and risks. Discuss the costs ahead of time with your vet to budget for routine vaccines and preventive care.
Conclusion
In summary, there are a number of important core and non-core vaccines that contribute to a cat’s health and wellbeing. Core vaccines like rabies, panleukopenia, feline herpesvirus, and feline calicivirus are critical to protecting cats against highly contagious and potentially fatal diseases. Non-core vaccines may be recommended depending on the cat’s lifestyle and risk factors, but are equally important for preventing illness in certain scenarios. Following the proper vaccine schedule, including initial doses, boosters, and routine vet checkups, provides cats with the maximum protection against disease. While vaccines are extremely safe, side effects can occasionally occur and exemptions may be granted after discussion with a vet. However, for almost all pet cats, core vaccines in particular form a fundamental component of preventative healthcare. By staying up to date on all recommended vaccines, cat owners can promote their pet’s lifelong health and longevity.