Important Vaccinations for Omaha Cats - March 2014

By Dr. Shawn Finch

Rabies – Cats are infected with rabies at three times the rate that dogs are infected with rabies!  All cats should be vaccinated against rabies.

Q: Which pets should be vaccinated against rabies?

A: Every dog, cat and ferret should be vaccinated against rabies.  We can completely prevent this fatal disease in people and our pets with this vaccine!

Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis – Feline viral rhinotracheitis is a respiratory virus of cats that also often causes conjunctivitis – inflammation of the soft tissue around the eyes.  Vaccination decreases the incidence of feline viral rhinotracheitis and lessens the severity of symptoms, but does not always prevent infection.

Calicivirus – Feline calicivirus is a respiratory virus of cats that also often causes oral ulcers.  Vaccination decreases the incidence of calicivirus and lessens the severity of symptoms, but does not always prevent infection.

Panleukopenia – Panleukopenia is a viral disease of cats that affects their cerebellum – the part of the brain that helps coordinate motor movement.  Panleukopenia can be fatal, especially to kittens infected before they are born.  If kittens survive infection, they often go on to have a great quality of life.  They have physical limitations, but learn to adapt well, and panleukopenia is not progressive.

Q: Which cats should be vaccinated against rhinotracheitis, calicivirus and panleukopenia? 

A; Because these diseases are highly contagious – the first two by respiratory transmission – so even by touching noses through a screen door or with the introduction of a new cat to the household – every kitten and cat should be vaccinated against these diseases.

We vaccinate against feline viral rhinotracheitis, calicivirus and panleukopenia in one combination vaccine in order to give your cats as few shots as possible!

Feline Leukemia – Feline leukemia is a viral disease of cats that affects their immune systems.  A cat with feline leukemia will often die of a secondary infection or cancer that their immune system is unable to protect them against. 

Q: Which cats should be vaccinated against feline leukemia?  Because feline leukemia is spread through the transfer of fluids, we mainly vaccinate cats against leukemia who spend time outdoors or are exposed to known or potential feline leukemia positive cats.

Please call Gentle Doctor Animal Hospitals today to check if your cats are due for any of their vaccines or other wellness care!