Cats are known for being low-maintenance pets, however, it is important to keep up with their vaccinations. At Compassion Vet Hospital in Bradford, NH, we provide the necessary vaccines that can protect your cat from infectious diseases and ensure it is living a happy and healthy life. Before visiting us, learn more about the importance of vaccinations below!
The core vaccines for your cat are meant to prevent acquiring and spreading deadly diseases, some of which are transmittable to humans as well. The following are considered core for all cats:
- Rabies
- Panleukopenia
- Rhinotracheitis
- Calici
- The later 3 vaccines are offered as a combination vaccine commonly referred to as a Feline Upper Respiratory Vaccine, a Feline Distemper or FVRCP depending on the source. All 3 reference the same vaccine.
FeLV:
Feline Leukemia is transmitted by blood and saliva. Indoor cats who live with other cats are not at risk. Indoor/outdoor cats and cats who live with positive cats should be vaccinated annually.
What about Vaccine Titres?
We are always happy to run a vaccine titre for the Distemper/Parvo vaccine in place of a vaccine. We then only need to vaccinate should that titre come back low. The State of NH does not, however, consider Rabies titres to be acceptable by law, so in compliance with state law, we do require our patients to be up to date with Rabies vaccines.
The Importance of Kitten Vaccinations
If you've adopted a kitten, it's important to bring it to our vets between six and eight weeks of age. During your first appointment, we will work closely with you to set up a vaccination schedule for your kitten’s needs.
Typically, he or she will receive a set of core vaccinations that will keep them healthy. These vaccinations include a feline distemper vaccination, a calicivirus vaccine, a rabies vaccine, and a vaccine for feline viral rhino tracheitis. Our veterinarians may also recommend a feline leukemia vaccine. Your kitten will need several sets of vaccines to be fully protected and we may suggest that you return every 3-4 weeks until your pet's full vaccinations are fully completed.
What Vaccinations Are Necessary for Older Cats?
Your cat will need receive boosters as it gets older. Our veterinarians can determine which boosters are necessary for your feline. Your pet's lifestyle may be a determining factor for the vaccinations it needs, as an outdoor cat is susceptible to different health issues than an indoor cat.
Even if your cat exclusively lives indoors, it's important that you keep up with regular veterinary appointments and keep it vaccinated. Certain diseases that affect cats are highly contagious and can be brought into the home by humans. It's also important to check local ordinances to ensure that you're keeping up with local rabies vaccination requirements.
Contact us for an Appointment Today!
To learn more about the vaccinations your cat may need or to schedule your visit, contact Compassion Vet Hospital in Bradford, NH, at (603) 938-5500 today. We are happy to provide you with additional details and set you up with an appointment. When you are looking for a veterinarian near me, we are ready to assist you!