As responsible cat owners, it is important to ensure that their cats eat well and maintain a healthy body.
In addition to providing them with food, water, and playtime, new cat owners may also be confused about vaccinations when their kitten reaches the appropriate age.
Outlined below are several important facts to know about vaccinations for cats.
When kittens are born, they obtain “maternal antibodies” from their mother to protect themselves. These antibodies gradually disappear after the kittens are weaned.
In order to protect the kitten from viruses, it is necessary to vaccinate them after they reach 8 weeks of age to strengthen their resistance.
There are three viruses that are most common and highly dangerous to cats: Feline Distemper, Feline Nasal Branch, and Feline Calicivirus. Vaccines against these three viruses are called core vaccines because they must be given to all cats.
The principle of “prevention is better than cure” should be adhered to when it comes to vaccinations. No matter what kind of disease a cat may contract, it will cause them suffering and the treatment costs can be very high.
Moving on to the timing and precautions for cat vaccinations:
1. Vaccination is discouraged before kittens reach 8 weeks old. Maternal antibodies could interfere with vaccine effectiveness.
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2. Wait for at least two weeks after bringing a cat home before vaccinating. This allows time to observe the cat's health.
3. Avoid vaccinating sick cats. Routine checks before vaccination help ensure a healthy start.
4. Deworming before vaccination is vital. Parasites could impact vaccine efficacy. Administer deworming one week before vaccination.
5. Cats exposed to infectious diseases can't be vaccinated within two weeks.
6. If a cat gets sick post-vaccination or is exposed to illness, wait until recovery before re-vaccinating.
7. After the vaccination, it's crucial to observe cats at the hospital for a span of 20 minutes to swiftly address any potential allergic reactions, requiring prompt medical intervention to ensure their well-being.
8. Allow 7-10 days for the vaccine to take effect. Avoid bathing cats within a week post-vaccination.
9. Temporary side effects like low fever and reduced appetite are normal phenomena after the vaccination. These typically subside within 1-3 days. Enhance the cat's nutrition and consider vitamin supplements if necessary. If symptoms persist, consult a veterinarian after three days.
By understanding these vaccination principles and adhering to the recommended guidelines, cat owners can ensure the health and well-being of their furry companions.