Kitten Vaccinations:
What You Need to Know
Kitten vaccinations are an important part of kitten health. Kitten shots provide young cats with the tools they need to fight off dangerous and life-threatening infections. While not all vaccines are appropriate for all kittens, vaccination can save lives.
Kittens are especially prone to getting infections. A young kitten’s weak immune system is often unable to fight off infections. And many kittens as a result get upper respiratory infections quite easily. Kittens initially get antibodies to fight off infection from their mother’s milk. These antibodies wear off after a few weeks and kittens are left susceptible to becoming ill. That’s why vaccination is so crucial for young kittens: to take over when mom cat’s antibodies are no longer serving them.
Recommended Kitten Vaccinations
Not all kitten shots are necessary for all cats. It really depends upon the cats living conditions and health status. Cats reared around a large number of felines such as in shelters may require different vaccines than a cat that lives alone. So, be sure to check with your vet about which shots your cat will need most.
But, no matter what the circumstances all kittens will need basic essential vaccinations. Core vaccinations consist of Rabies, Feline Panleukopenia, Feline Calcivirus, and Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis.
Non-Essential Vaccinations
There are vaccines that are non-essential for all cats. These vaccinations just depend upon the cat and what they need. For example, cats that live outside may need extra vaccinations to protect against exposure to viruses common to outdoor felines. Examples of non-essential vaccines include those for Feline Leukemia (FeLV), Feline Infectious Peritonitis (FIP), and Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV). There’s even a vaccine for ringworm available.
Best Time to Give Vaccinations
It’s usually best not to give kittens vaccines prior to six to eight weeks of age, unless there are special circumstances. Most kittens who are nursing from their mother at this age are still getting maternal antibodies through their mom’s milk. The antibodies in their mother’s milk can fight against the vaccines and cause the kitten vaccinations not to take. It’s also best to give kitten shots when a kitten is healthy and its body can begin the work of building resistance against deadly pathogens.
Kitten Vaccination Schedule
|
Disease
|
Method
|
1st Dose
|
2nd Dose
|
Booster
|
|
Rabies
|
SQ
|
12 + weeks
|
1 year
|
1-3 years
|
|
Feline Panleukopenia
|
IM, Nasal
|
6-8 weeks
|
12-16 weeks
|
1 year
|
*SQ=under the skin;
IM=in the muscle
Keep in mind that these are simply guidelines. Different locations require different shots or shots to be given more or less frequently. Speak with your vet about what your cat’s specific needs.
Side Effects of Kitten Vaccinations
Overall, vaccinations are safe for kittens. The vast majority of kittens never develop any serious side effects from vaccinations. However, as all kittens are individuals some do experience medical problems as a result of vaccines. Here are some common vaccine related health issues.
- Tenderness at Injection Site
It’s common for kittens to get some minor swelling at the site of a shot. You may also notice some redness and mild tenderness of the area. Just let the kitten rest and keep an eye on it.
- Allergic Reaction
With allergic reactions to kitten shots, you may notice that your kitten has an elevated temperature and may seem overly tired. You may even notice that your kitten vomits or simply does not seem like its normal self. Call your vet for instructions.
- Anaphylaxis
Rarely, some kittens have severe reactions to vaccines. Anaphylactic reactions can cause hives, severe itching, difficulty breathing, and swelling. This is a medical emergency and a kitten must be seen by a vet immediately.
- Feline Sarcoma
Feline sarcoma is a rare type of cancer associated with feline vaccination. Usually, the cancer occurs at the injection site and can be quite deadly. Luckily, this is extremely rare.
Lower Cost Vaccinations
There are many low cost pet clinics available that offer kitten shots at a reduced fee. If your town has a local animal shelter or rescue organization, give them a call and inquire about your kitten vaccination options. Your vet may also know of other ways to receive less expensive vaccinations as well.
Return from Kitten Vaccinations to Kitten Health
Return from Kitten Vaccinations to All About Cute Kittens Homepage
|
