Vaccination of cats and kittens
Vaccination is often the first reason that brings a new puppy or kitten owner to the veterinarian. The basic rule is to vaccinate only healthy animals; in case of illness, it is advisable to postpone the vaccination. Furthermore, it is necessary not to overexert the animal after vaccination, not to let it get cold anywhere, and to consult a veterinarian about the application of all medications, including deworming tablets. In general, it is advisable to deworm dogs and cats no later than a week before and no earlier than a week after vaccination.
The vaccination itself is usually well tolerated by animals. Side effects such as fatigue, loss of appetite and a temporary increase in temperature occur rarely and subside quickly. In exceptional cases, hives, itching and swelling at the injection site or swelling of the head may occur. Inform your veterinarian about such side effects, who will change the brand of vaccine at the next vaccination. Severe reactions in the form of anaphylactic shock occur very rarely and immediately after vaccination. For this reason, there is no need to be overly concerned, as a specialist who will take care of the animal is always within reach.
Basic vaccinations - kittens
Maternal antibodies in kittens have a longer half-life than in puppies, so vaccination of kittens begins later. The basic infections against which kittens need to be vaccinated are feline calicivirosis (C), panleukopenia (P) and rhinotracheitis (R). As with puppies, it is most appropriate to perform the last booster vaccination after 16 weeks of age. However, as with puppies, vaccination is often completed a little earlier in practice, usually after the second application around 3 months of age. As with puppies, the risk of insufficient vaccine effectiveness is minimal at this age. After that, cats are regularly revaccinated every year. Unlike dogs, cats are not required by law to be vaccinated against rabies. Given that rabies does not currently occur in the Czech Republic and cats experience adverse reactions to the rabies vaccine more often than dogs, it is possible to omit it. However, it is mandatory to vaccinate cats against rabies when traveling abroad. I would also recommend vaccinating outdoor cats in border areas, as not all neighboring countries are rabies-free (Poland is the most at risk in this regard).
Basic vaccination schedule - kitten
Optional vaccination of kittens
In addition to the basic vaccination, which is recommended for all kittens, cats can be vaccinated against other diseases. Probably the most common is the vaccination against chlamydia. This is especially suitable for cats from environments where chlamydia has already occurred, outdoor or show cats. The first vaccination is carried out from the 9th week with one booster vaccination in 3-4 weeks and then every year. Vaccination against feline leukemia (FeLV) is possible from the 8th week with one booster vaccination in 3-4 weeks, then after a year and then every 2-3 years. Only cats that are FeLV negative can be vaccinated. Furthermore, it is possible, similarly to dogs, against fungal infections.
