What vaccines should my cat be current on?

All cats and kittens should be current on the following:

FVRCP - FVRCP is an abbreviation for Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis Calicivirus Panleukopenia. The FVRCP vaccine is given in a series to a kitten to help build the immune system and includes common intestinal and upper respiratory viruses. The number of vaccines given depends on the age of the kitten. The kitten vaccinations are given every 3-4 weeks. It is then boosted annually until the cat is three years old or has had 2 annual boosters. The FVRCP vaccine is then good for 3 years.

Rabies - The rabies vaccination is required by the County of Cuyahoga and the State of Ohio.  It also protects your cat from contracting the rabies virus after an unexpected encounter with wildlife.  Rabies is one of the world’s most publicized and feared diseases.  The Rabies virus attacks the brain and central nervous system and is transmitted to humans chiefly through the bite of an infected animal.  After the first Rabies vaccine, they are boosted every 3 years. They must be 16 weeks old to receive this vaccine.  This disease is fatal in pets and requires several painful vaccines in humans to prevent.

Leukemia - The FeLV vaccine (Feline Leukemia Virus) is given to kittens regardless of indoor/outdoor status because of its high level of fatality while they’re young.  Following the first year, it is continued in cats who go outdoors or who interact with any cat that goes outdoors.  Feline leukemia is highly contagious from one cat to another and can be contracted through blood, saliva, mating, and feces. After the first vaccine, it is boosted 3-4 weeks later. It is then boosted once per year.

For more information about all wellness topics related to cats, please see the booklet by CATegorical Care.

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