Whether you are a first-time cat owner or not, getting your cat vaccinated is a crucial responsibility. These vaccines help prevent various diseases, ensuring your cats can enjoy a healthy life.
Why Should Be My Cat Vaccinated?
Vaccinating your cat strengthens their immune system and enabling your cat to fight against a range of illnesses. Therefore, getting your cat vaccinated is a key to protect them from disease.
Types of Cat Vaccines and Preventable Diseases
Although there are no legal requirements in Hong Kong for cat vaccinations, it is highly recommended for the well-being of your cat.
Core Vaccinations
Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis, Calicivirus, and Panleukopenia (FVRCP).
- Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis (FHV-1): This vaccine protects against feline herpesvirus, a major cause of upper respiratory infections in cats.
- Feline Calicivirus (FCV): This vaccine guards against calicivirus, another common agent of feline respiratory diseases.
- Feline Panleukopenia Virus (FPV): Also known as feline distemper, this vaccine is crucial as the disease is often fatal, causing severe diarrhoea and vomiting.
These three vaccines are typically combined into a single injection referred to as the FVRCP vaccine.
This combination vaccine protects cats from three highly contagious and potentially fatal diseases. It is essential for all cats, as these diseases can spread through direct contact or contaminated surfaces.
Non-Core Vaccinations
- Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV). FeLV vaccination is recommended for outdoor cats or those exposed to other cats, as it protects against a virus that can lead to severe immune suppression and cancer. It is not considered essential for strictly indoor cats with no risk of exposure.
- Rabies. Rabies vaccination is crucial for both the cat's health and public safety. This fatal viral disease affects the nervous system and is transmissible to humans, making it a legal requirement in many regions.
While rabies is rare in Hong Kong, vaccination against rabies is recommended for cats, especially if there are plans for international travel, as it may be a legal requirement in other countries.
The typical vaccination schedule for kittens is as follows:
- First Vaccination: Administered at 8 to 10 weeks of age.
- Second Vaccination: Given at 12 weeks of age.
- Third Vaccination: Administered at 16 weeks of age.
- Booster Shots: Annual boosters are recommended to maintain immunity.
It's important to note that vaccination schedules can vary based on individual health status and risk factors. Consulting with a veterinarian will ensure that your cat receives the appropriate vaccinations tailored to their specific needs.
Vaccination Schedule for Cats
The timing and frequency of vaccination vary depending on the vaccine type and the age of cats.
FVRCP Vaccine
Kittens typically receive their first core vaccine shot at two months old, followed by boosters every month until they are four months old. Afterward, revaccination is required every one to three years.
For adult cats, the initial core vaccine shot is followed by a booster after one month. After these two shots, revaccination is necessary every three years.
Rabies Vaccine
The specific injection plan and timing for rabies vaccine should be discussed with your veterinarian based on individual circumstances.
Daily Preventive Measures for Cat’s Health
In addition to vaccination, taking daily preventive measures is crucial for ensuring your pet's health. Here are some common preventive measures:
- Annual Health Check. Schedule regular veterinary health check to monitor your cat's overall health, including comprehensive physical examination, dental evaluation and general deworming.
- Regular Grooming. Regularly brush your cat's fur to remove shed hair and parasites.
- Clean Environment. Maintain a clean and hygienic living environment for your cat by regularly cleaning their living space and washing pet utilities.
Cat Vaccination FAQs
Q1: Does vaccinating a cat guarantee immunity protection?
A1: Cat vaccination significantly reduces the risk of diseases. Vaccines offer immunity protection for cats, but there is still a very small chance of infection.
Q2: My cat stays indoors and doesn't go outside. Is vaccination necessary?
A2: Even if your cat is strictly indoors, it is still recommended to get them vaccinated. Kittens can be born with infections from the mother, or they can contact viruses through environmental exposure. Vaccination greatly reduces the chances of illness.
Q3: Are all cats suitable for vaccination?
A3: Most cats are suitable for preventive vaccination. However, in some special circumstances (such as pregnancy or illness), the veterinarian will assess whether vaccination is appropriate based on the specific situation.
If your pets are in an emergency or if you have general inquiries, please do not hesitate to contact Veterinary Emergency Centre.
General Hotline: 2334-2334
24-Hour Emergency Hotline: 6828-6620
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