The Scoop On Kitty Vaccinations:

The Scoop on Kitty Vaccinations: If you have recently adopted your cat from a rescue chances are they are coming home with up to date vaccinations. Kittens might still require few vet visits to complete there vaccination schedule. Not unlike us, cats have a vaccination schedule based on their age.

This usually starts between 6-8 weeks. By 6 months of age your cat will have most likely have seen the vet 3-4 times and received all their relevant boosters.

Vaccinations in Canada:

Currently these are the common vaccinations available for our cats in Canada and there recommended vaccine schedule.

• Rabies – This vaccine schedule varies depending on the vaccine type and your vet’s recommendations. Can be given yearly or up to 3 years apart

• Feline Panleukopenia (Distemper) – After the first few doses normally at 6 weeks and 12 weeks, similar to the Rabies vaccine boosters can be given 1 to 3 years apart

• Feline Calicivirus (Upper Respiratory Infections and Oral Disease) – After the first few doses normally at 6 weeks and 12 weeks, similar to the Rabies vaccine boosters can be given 1 to 3 years apart

• Feline Rhinotracheitis (Feline Herpes) – veterinarians sometimes recommend getting the booster for this vaccine every 3 years.

• Feline Leukemia – Generally given to kittens.  Boosters can be given to kitties who are at risk

It’s important to have a conversation with your vet regarding the vaccines your cat may receive.  As with vaccines in humans some cats may have reactions to certain vaccines. Watch for changes in your cat’s mood, behaviour, and appetite after getting vaccines. Sharing this information with your vet is always recommended.

Rabies Vaccinations:

Did you know the rabies vaccine is a mandated vaccine here in Ontario?  For that reason all dogs and cats (Some livestock too) are required to have up to date vaccines. Equally important, indoor cats are required to get the rabies vaccine too. Did you know that Rabies only affects mammals and is a zoonotic disease? That is a disease that humans can catch from infected animals. For that reason should you experience a animal bite please have it checked out by a healthcare provider.

Rabies is most often transmitted in Ontario by bats, racoons, skunks and foxes. As a result it’s important to know the signs of rabies and how to best protect your family.  If you suspect any wildlife near your home is infected you should contact animal control.

The rabies vaccine is so important and for that reason, here in Toronto the rabies vaccines are available on the mobile Chip Truck. This is an affordable option to keep your pets up to date on their rabies vaccine. However appointments are required to use this service.

How to handle vaccinations with your cat?

In conclusion the decision on what vaccines to give and when is always something to discuss with your veterinarian. They will have the best understanding of your cats health and risk factors. At the end of the day we all just want to have a healthy and happy kitty.