Do you find it difficult to keep track of the vaccines your cats receive? Do you wonder which ones they need and which ones can or should be waived? We see some vaccine prevented diseases so infrequently - thank goodness, that it is easy to forget how awful they truly can be!

Zsa Zsa, the kitty our vet tech Becky Christ rescued (twice!) is now thriving in her forever home.

Here is the quick explanation of the diseases against which we vaccinate with a more detailed explanation following. Every cat should be vaccinated against rabies, feline viral rhinotracheitis (feline herpes), calicivirus and panleukopenia. Cats at high risk of exposure should be vaccinated against feline leukopenia.

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

Sassie the 23 year old (!) Cat of Kathi Ortmeier of Basset and Beagle Rescue of the Heartland

Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis – Feline viral rhinotracheitis or feline herpes 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.

Salem - Isn't he gorgeous?

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.

Vet Tech Becky's Hommie Cat

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.

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

Vet Tech Allison Parker's Frank in his Formal Attire

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.  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.

Our Team Member Laura Drew's "Pride" - Left to Right - Figero (who has passed away), Oreo, Nala and Lestat

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

Our Veterinary Assistant Shonda Jenkin's Rescued Kitty and her own Kitty Echo