Infectious diseases are diseases caused by micro-organisms such as viruses, bacteria, parasites and fungal infections. Most of these microbes are constantly present in the environment, which means that cats are always at risk of infection. Cats that reside in a house or apartment full time are also at risk, this is due to us bringing infectious agents from the outside world on our clothes or shoes back to our home.
Kittens are recommended to receive their first vaccination between 6- 8 weeks. This is temporary and needs to be followed up with another one between 10- 12 weeks then another between 14- 16 weeks.
A kitten can safely go outside 12 days after the final vaccination. To maintain immunity, all adult cats require annual boosters.
There are three different vaccinations that you can choose for your kitty to be vaccinated with; These terms are F3 (Core vaccine), F4 (Non-core vaccine) or F5 (Non-core vaccine).
The F3 vaccination (Core vaccination) covers;
- Feline herpes virus (FHV); This is commonly known as ‘Cat Flu’ a general term for upper respiratory tract and eyes (conjunctivitis) infections.
- Feline Calicivirus (FCV) which is also known as another ‘Cat Flu’ strain.
- Feline Panleukopenia Virus (Enteritis); commonly known as feline parvovirus, this is a highly infectious and potentially fatal disease. It causes severe and often fatal gastroenteritis.
The F4 vaccination includes the cover of Feline herpes virus, Feline Calicivirus and Feline Panleukopenia, along with additional cover against Feline Leukemia virus (FeLV). Feline Leukemia virus is generally transmitted through saliva or nasal secretions and can lead to fatal diseases, such as blood cancer (Leukemia). The F4 vaccination is primarily recommended for cat families having more than 4 cats.
The F5 vaccination includes the cover Feline herpes virus, Feline Calicivirus, Feline Panleukopenia virus, Chlamydia, Feline Leukemia and Feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV). Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV) attacks your cats’ immune system, leaving them vulnerable to other infections. Feline Immunodeficiency Virus injection is recommended for cats that are primarily outside.
Cat Vaccination Aftercare
Some kittens and cats will jump around after their vaccinations like nothing has happened, where others will seem a bit needier and may seek comfort and privacy. Here are some tips for looking after your cat following his or her vaccinations:
- Provide your cat with a warm and quiet place to rest
- Make sure they access to water and their food
- Avoid patting the area where your cat received the injections, the area may be sore for the next 48-72 hours
- Check up on your cat regularly to ensure they are not showing any side effects.
Any symptoms that persist for more than two days should be discussed with your veterinarian.
At Cat Utopia Resort all cats must have been fully vaccinated with the yearly booster of F3 at least 2 weeks prior to boarding to ensure they have adequate coverage.
