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Vaccinations are essential for protecting cats from serious infectious diseases and preventing outbreaks within the wider pet community. Kittens need an initial series of vaccinations to build immunity, but lifelong protection requires ongoing boosters. That’s why it’s important that adult cats receive regular – usually annual – vaccinations, to help maintain strong defences against disease. Contact us to discuss the best vaccination plan for your kitten or cat.
Some cats may feel a little unwell for a day or two after vaccination, with mild swelling or tenderness at the injection site. Providing fresh food, water and a quiet space to rest is usually enough for recovery. If symptoms seem more severe or persist, please reach out to us for advice.
Feline panleukopenia is a highly contagious and often fatal disease, especially in kittens under 12 months old. Symptoms include lethargy, loss of appetite, severe vomiting, diarrhoea (often with blood) and abdominal pain. The virus spreads easily, and heavily contaminated areas may require specialised disinfection to prevent further infection. Vaccination is the best protection against this serious disease. We can help.
This virus attacks the immune system and can be associated with weight loss, reduced appetite, vomiting, diarrhoea, increased susceptibility to other infections, leukaemia and tumours. Many cats may be infected and show no signs at all. Approximately one third of infected cats remain chronically infected and shed virus in their saliva, tears, nasal secretions and urine. The disease is then spread to uninfected cats by mutual grooming, fighting and sneezing. Unfortunately this vaccination is not available in Australia currently.
Around 90% of cat flu cases are caused by feline herpesvirus (feline rhinotracheitis) and/or feline calicivirus. This highly contagious disease affects cats of all ages particularly kittens. Symptoms include sneezing, coughing, runny eyes, nasal discharge, loss of appetite and tongue ulcers. While the death rate is low except in young kittens, the illness can be distressing, with symptoms lasting for weeks. Recovered cats may continue to carry and spread the virus and can experience flare-ups if stressed. Vaccination helps reduce the risk and severity of infection.
Feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) weakens a cat’s immune system, similar to HIV in humans, but it cannot be transmitted to people. The virus spreads primarily through bites from infected cats, as it is present in saliva. Some cats show no symptoms, while others may initially experience fever, loss of appetite, diarrhoea, lethargy, and swollen lymph nodes. Over time, signs such as weight loss, mouth sores, eye lesions, a poor coat, and chronic infections may develop. As the immune system weakens, the cat becomes vulnerable to secondary infections, which can be fatal. In Australia, FIV is widespread, with 1 in 7 outdoor cats infected. Vaccination and minimising outdoor exposure can help reduce the risk.
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