factsheet – vaccinations

Vaccinations
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Vaccinations are very important to keeping your cat healthy. There are different types of vaccinations and different recommendations regarding frequency.

The Australian Veterinary Association recommends that all kittens should receive their full course of core vaccinations and first annual booster, and decisions about the subsequent frequency of vaccination be made in consultation with your cat’s vet. While for some cats annual vaccination might be advised, it is generally recommended that core vaccines be administered every three years. These core, or F3, vaccinations help your cat fight off Feline Panleukopenia and Cat Flu (Feline herpesvirus, and Feline calicivirus). Vaccinations do not provide immunity for your cat against these diseases but instead help reduce the risk and severity of symptoms will be should your cat come into contact with them.

At Cat Protection we see the health benefits of vaccination and we also see the suffering that cats who are not immunised can go through. All our cats and kittens have received at least their initial F3 vaccinations and when you adopt a cat from us we will tell you the due date for their next vaccination.

We strongly recommend that all cat owners develop a good relationship with a local vet; staying with the same vet or vet clinic will ensure continuity of care for your cat.

After your cat has received their initial course of vaccinations and first annual booster, you should discuss with your vet the frequency of future vaccinations, taking into consideration matters such as whether your cat goes outdoors and whether they are regularly boarded. Most boarding catteries require an up to date annual vaccination certificate. As well, you should discuss with your vet whether your cat should have any non-core vaccinations. Some diseases can be more prevalent in different areas and your cat will be at more risk if they have outside access, your vet can recommend the appropriate vaccinations for your cat.

Whether or not your cat is vaccinated annually they should be health checked by a vet at least every year and whenever signs of illness or changed behaviour occur.

A good relationship with a regular vet means your cat’s medical history is well documented, providing vital information as your cat ages or if they become ill.

While all care has been taken in preparing this document, it is intended to provide general information only and should not be taken as constituting professional advice. Mention of a product or  business does not mean endorsement by Cat Protection.