Essential Cat Vaccinations: A Comprehensive Guide

Why Do Cats Need Vaccinations?

It's a common practice to administer a series of vaccinations to cats to protect them from various diseases. Typically, cats are given a combination of the standard feline trio vaccine, which includes protection against three common feline illnesses, along with a rabies vaccine. This trio consists of vaccines for feline distemper (panleukopenia), feline rhinotracheitis (herpesvirus), and feline calicivirus (symptoms are similar to those of rhinotracheitis but also include oral diseases).

These three diseases are quite prevalent in cats and can be quite deadly. Unfortunately, there are no effective medications to fully cure them; treatment usually relies on supportive care and the cat's own immune response. Therefore, it is strongly recommended that cat owners ensure their pets receive the feline trio vaccine.

As for the rabies vaccine, it is generally not advised for indoor cats that do not venture outside, as the probability of cats contracting rabies in China is extremely low. However, if you're not comfortable with this, you can opt to have your cat vaccinated against rabies when it reaches adulthood.

How to Administer Cat Vaccinations?

The best time to vaccinate a cat is when it is healthy, of an appropriate age, and its immune system is functioning normally. This ensures the vaccine can work effectively within the cat's body. For kittens, it's advisable to start with the first vaccination at around 8 weeks of age. Most cats require a series of three vaccinations, with the second and third doses given four weeks apart after the first.

For adult cats, two doses of the feline trio vaccine are recommended, with the second dose administered three to four weeks after the first. As for whether additional vaccinations are needed, it's a good idea to have an antibody test done every three years. If antibodies are present, there's no need for further vaccinations.

Common Questions About Cat Vaccinations

1. Can a cat with ringworm be vaccinated?

It depends on the situation. If the cat is currently on medication and recovering, it's best not to vaccinate. However, if the ringworm is nearly healed, vaccination can be done without affecting the vaccine's effectiveness.

2. Can different brands of vaccines be administered?

It's generally not recommended to mix brands, especially for the first three or two doses. For booster shots, different brands can be used.

3. Can pregnant cats be vaccinated?

Inactivated vaccines are fine, but live vaccines are not recommended.

4. How can you tell if the vaccine is working?

Antibody testing can determine if the vaccine is effective. If it is, you can consult with a veterinarian to discuss whether further vaccinations are needed and the appropriate intervals.

5. Can kittens be vaccinated?

It's not advisable to vaccinate kittens too young as they may still have maternal antibodies inherited from their mothers, which can interfere with the vaccine's immune response.

6. Which should be done first: vaccination or deworming?

Exterior deworming can be done at the same time as vaccination, provided there are no fleas and no parasites detected. Internal deworming should be done at least a week after the vaccine series is completed.

7. Can a vaccinated cat be bathed?

No, it's best to wait until all vaccinations are completed and then wait an additional one to two weeks after the last dose before bathing the cat.