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Annual vaccinations for cats have been standard for a long time, but the recommendations were never based on scientific studies. Veterinarians and pet owners are beginning to question the need for yearly boosters.

 

Below is a set of guidelines which they consider “Core” Vaccines, but you and your veterinarian should analyze your cat’s risk of exposure and develop your cat’s own vaccination protocol.

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FVR

(feline viral rhinotracheitis)

FVR and FCV account for 85% – 90% of all upper respiratory infection in cats. Kittens are especially susceptible.

Initial dose for kittens, 1 round every 3 weeks after 6 weeks of age. Booster One year after initial vaccinations, then one every three years.

FCV

(feline calicvirus)

FVR and FCV account for 85% – 90% of all upper respiratory infection in cats. Kittens are especially susceptible.

Initial dose for kittens, 1 round every 3 weeks after 6 weeks of age. Booster One year after initial vaccinations, then one every three years.

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FPL

(feline panleukopenia) Distemper

Kittens in shelters, strays and multiple cat households are at highest risk for this severe intestinal infection

Initial dose for kittens; 1 round every 3 weeks after 6 weeks of age. Booster One year after initial vaccinations, then one every three years.

 

Rabies

Any unvaccinated cat is susceptible to Rabies, as are all warm blooded animals. Kittens over 12 weeks should receive initial dose.

booster 1 year later, then every three years. Some cats develop sarcoma at the vaccination site so do not over vaccinate your cat – stick to every 3 years if your state law allows.

 

FELV

(feline leukemia)

Similar to the human HIV/AIDS virus, it attacks the immune system and can lead to lymphosarcoma.

Outdoor kittens under 16 weeks are at high risk. However, the vaccine also has a high risk of causing sarcoma at the vaccination site, so only vaccinate if your cat is an outdoor cat or lives with one.

 

FIP

(feline infectious peritonitis)

Another immune system disease that can affect many different tissues. Kittens under 1 year

year in multiple cat households are at risk. Initial rounds of intranasal vaccines should be given at 12 and 15 weeks, then annually if at risk. Efficacy of this vaccine is debatable.

 

Chlamydiosis

(feline infectious peritonitis)

A risk to cats in shelters and multiple cat households, the symptoms are mild upper respiratory infection and conjuctivitis. Fewer than 5%

of upper respiratory cases involve Chlamydiodis but the vaccine causes many adverse reactions (compared to other vaccines). Not recommended unless at serious risk.

 

Dermatophytosis

(Ringworm)

This fungus (skin infection) is highly contagious to other cats, dogs and humans. Initial dosage and boosters

boosters have not yet been established. Vaccines cannot eliminate an external fungus and topical preparations will be needed as well.

 

Dermatophytosis

(Ringworm)

Like the Canine bordetalla (aka Kennel Cough) this is a bacterial upper respiratory infection. Young kittens are at highest risk.

Recommended dosage and boosters have not yet been established. Side effects unknown. Further studies needed.