Following your vet’s recommended pet vaccine schedule for your cat or kitten is paramount to the health of your pet. Learning about the vaccinations needed will help you understand why they’re important and ensure that your cat gets all the ones they need. Below is more information on why they matter and which vaccines cats need.

Why Pet Vaccines Are Important

Vaccinations provide protection from common, critical diseases and illnesses that cats are prone to getting. They work by introducing the pathogen to your cat’s immune system, in a safe manner, so it produces antibodies for the specific illness. If the cat comes into contact with that illness in the future, this enables their immune system to quickly fight off the illness through the antibodies or cells. 

Even though vaccines aren’t always 100% effective, they reduce the risk of your cat getting sick and lessen their symptoms if they do get, decreasing the likelihood of complications or long-term health problems. All vaccines are tested for safety and efficacy, and side effects or complications from vaccines are extremely rare.

What Pet Vaccines Your Cat Needs

There are core and non-core vaccines for cats. There are two universal core vaccines that are recommended for all felines. The first is for feline parvovirus, a highly fatal and contagious infection that’s common in cats, and vaccination against the disease is highly effective at preventing the illness. The second protects against both feline herpes virus and feline calicivirus. Both illnesses are the most common causes of respiratory infections in cats and can cause ongoing health problems if contracted. Vaccines for these greatly reduce the severity of the diseases if a cat does become infected. In the U.S., a vaccine for rabies, also known as distemper, will also likely be required by state or local laws, as it’s highly contagious and poses dangers to humans and animals.

There are also non-core vaccines that may be recommended by your animal hospital if your area has a high rate of related infections or if your cat spends any time outside. Non-core vaccines your veterinary care specialist may recommend include those for chlamydia, leukemia, immunodeficiency virus, bordetella, and infectious peritonitis.

Do you have a cat or kitten that needs pet vaccines? Cat & Dog Hospital of Columbia in Howard County, MD, has over 30 years of experience providing urgent, preventive, dental, and medical veterinary care. Their animal hospital has advanced diagnostic tools, boarding options, and an on-site pharmacy. Learn more about their care services online, and call (410) 995-6880 to schedule an appointment for your feline today.