Cat vaccines work by using a deactivated form of the virus or bacteria, helping the immune system recognize the pathogen and develop antibodies in response. When the real threat comes, the cat’s immune system is ready to defend.
Key Takeaways
Cat vaccinations are essential to safeguard your cat and reduce the spread of disease. They are also required by law for pet ownership and travel.
Core vaccines include rabies and FVRCP. The first dose for FVRCP must be given at 6-8 weeks of age.
Potential side effects include fever, lethargy, soreness at the injection site, and a reduced appetite.
What Are the Benefits of Vaccines for Cats?
One of the main reasons why it’s important to vaccinate your cat is the protection it offers. Vaccinated cats are significantly less likely to develop severe disease. These preventive treatments also prevent the spread of disease and are fully customizable according to your cat’s needs.
This ultimately means lower medical and unexpected emergency costs. Additionally, cat vaccinations are required for pet ownership, a vet health certificate, access to local pet services, and international travel.
Here’s a quick overview of cat vaccines from our head vet, Dr. Soheyl Simaei.
What Vaccines Do Cats Need?
Cats require two core vaccinations: rabies and FVRCP. Non-core variations can be recommended and provided as needed.
Core Cat Vaccinations
These are essential for all cats in order to protect their health and the community.
Anti-Rabies Vaccine
This helps protect cats against rabies, a deadly viral disease. The virus can easily spread to other animals when infected saliva reaches bite wounds and mucous membranes. It’s also zoonotic, meaning humans can be affected.
Once infected, the cat may experience rapid neurological deterioration, leading to behavioral changes, extreme aggression, and irritability. At the final stage, cats will experience paralysis, foaming at the mouth, and even death.
Prevention is the only effective solution against this disease. Common rabies vaccine options for cats include Purevax and Rabisin.
FVRCP
A combination vaccine that protects cats against three highly contagious diseases: feline viral rhinotracheitis, feline calicivirus, and feline panleukopenia. The standard brands for FVRCP are Nobivac, Purevax, and Felocell.
Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis: A severe upper respiratory infection caused by FHV-1. It’s a major cause of cat flu and results in sneezing, nasal discharge, and conjunctivitis. FVR affects over 90% of cats exposed to the virus. It’s generally transmitted through direct contact with infected saliva, eye discharge, or nasal secretions.
Feline Calicivirus: A viral disease that causes upper respiratory infections, oral ulcers, and even joint pain. FCV is transmitted through direct contact with infected saliva, eye or nasal discharge, and respiratory droplets. While cats may recover within 7-10 days, most become carriers for months.
Feline Panleukopenia: A highly contagious disease caused by feline parvovirus, which targets rapidly dividing cells and severely reduces the cat’s white blood cell count. It also attacks the intestines and bone marrow,
Non-Core Cat Vaccinations
Lifestyle options are recommended based on the cat’s location, risk of disease, lifestyle, and overall health. Some will require these, while others will not.
Feline Leukemia Virus Vaccine
This protects against FeLV, a virus that can significantly compromise a cat’s immune system and increase their risk of infections, anemia, and even certain cancers. It’s highly recommended for cats that love to go outdoors or live with other infected cats.
Bordetella Vaccine
Another option recommended for cats who frequently stay in shared spaces, such as multi-pet households, boarding facilities, and grooming salons. These are often places where respiratory infections spread easily.
When Should You Vaccinate Your Cat?
Our veterinarians recommend having your cat vaccinated with FVRCP at 6-8 weeks old. Boosters will be provided every 3-4 weeks until they reach 16-20 weeks old. This will then be followed up by a booster shot after a year, then subsequent boosters every 1-3 years.
Rabies will be administered when cats reach 14-16 weeks of age, followed by a booster shot a year later. The rabies vaccine requires annual boosters.
Kitten Vaccination Schedule
At the clinic, our vets will help set up a schedule that works for you and your cat. We’ll base this on your cat’s age, health, and lifestyle.
Age | 6-8 weeks | 10-12 weeks | 14-16 weeks |
|---|---|---|---|
Core Vaccines | FVRCP | FVRCP | FVRCP |
Non-Core Vaccines | Bordetella | FeLV | FeLV |
Adult Cat Vaccination Schedule
Boosters shots are essential to maintain your cat’s immunity to these diseases. Here’s what you can expect:
Frequency | Annually |
|---|---|
Core Vaccines | FVRCP |
Non-Core Vaccines | Bordetella |
How Much Do Vaccines Cost?
Our initial FVRCP vaccination will cost AED 360. Boosters, Dubai Municipality tag and registration, and other vaccines, such as rabies, will be priced at AED 510. Both options will include a vet exam and checkup.
How Does the Vaccination Process Work
The procedure is quick and simple, often taking a few minutes. Here’s how the process is done at our clinic:
Checkup and Review
Our veterinarians will review your cat’s medical history and ask about their age, lifestyle, and other related details. We’ll also check their weight, temperature, and overall condition before administering the vaccine. In some cases, we may need to do a blood test.
Recommendations and Discussions
Before proceeding with treatment, we’ll discuss with you the vaccines your cat needs. Lifestyle options will be recommended if needed.
Administering the Vaccine
Our veterinarians will gently prepare your cat for the injection. Cat vaccinations are primarily administered subcutaneously. FVRCP will be administered on the right front leg, while rabies will be on the right rear leg.
Monitoring and Guidance
We’ll monitor your cat for any reactions after the procedure and discuss what you may expect at home. Our vets will also provide suggestions for home care, update your cat’s vaccination records, and send you timely reminders for the next appointment.
Will Cats Experience Adverse Reactions?
Generally, mild side effects are possible after the procedure. This may include lethargy, swelling on the injection site, fever, loss of appetite, and a runny nose. However, this typically resolves within 24-48 hours. Always monitor your cat closely at home.
In rare cases, cats may experience severe symptoms such as anaphylaxis, facial swelling, hives, vomiting, difficulty breathing, or collapse. If any of these happen, bring your cat to the clinic right away for emergency treatment.
What Is the Dubai Municipality Tag and Registration?
The DM tag and registration signify that your cat has met official Dubai health and safety standards. For pets, this means that they have been microchipped and vaccinated. Upon registration, you will receive a small plastic tag, which must be placed on your cat’s collar.
“Keeping our cats happy means protecting them from the dangers they don’t know about.”
- Dr. Lidija Krvavac
As part of your cat’s health, vaccinations offer the most effective form of preventive care. They’re the best treatments that keep our best friends safe from dangerous diseases and painful conditions. Let’s start strengthening their immune systems today.
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