At Vets in Cranbourne, we prioritise the health and well-being of your feline friends through comprehensive cat vaccinations. Vaccinations are essential for preventing serious diseases and ensuring your furry family members stay healthy. Our expert team is dedicated to providing the best vaccination care for cats and kittens in Melbourne.
Why Is It Important To Vaccinate Your Cat?
Kittens and adult cats are at risk for various infectious diseases, many of which spread easily. Indoor cats can contract harmful viruses through brief interactions with other animals or contaminated surfaces. Core viruses can cause serious long-term health issues and may be fatal, especially for unvaccinated cats, kittens, or those with weakened immune systems.
Vaccination is crucial for maintaining your cat’s health and limiting the spread of these diseases. Furthermore, boarding facilities require current vaccinations for admission.
What We Vaccinate Against
At Vets in Cranbourne, we provide core cat vaccinations against the following serious viruses:
- Feline Panleukopenia Virus: A virus that disrupts blood cell production in the bone marrow and harms intestinal health, resulting in intense vomiting, diarrhea, and difficulties in nutrient absorption. This serious condition can be life-threatening and could ultimately be fatal.
- Feline Herpes Virus: This virus affects the upper respiratory tract and eyes, causing chronic flu-like symptoms that may flare up during stressful periods.
- Feline Calicivirus: A highly contagious virus that targets the upper respiratory system and eyes, resulting in painful mouth ulcers, fever, and swollen eyes. All strains can be life-threatening for kittens, while more virulent strains pose significant risks to adult cats.
Additional Vaccination for Outdoor Cats:
For outdoor cats, we recommend vaccination against Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV). This virus compromises the immune system, leading to chronic health issues like flu symptoms, dental problems, and poor coat health. FIV-positive cats often have shorter life spans due to increased susceptibility to diseases. FIV is primarily transmitted through bites from infected cats.
Recommended Vaccination Schedule
For optimal protection, we follow a specific vaccination schedule:
Kittens Vaccinations::
- 6–8 weeks old — First vaccination
- 10–12 weeks old — Second vaccination
- 14–16 weeks old — Third vaccination
Annual Vaccinations:
After your cat finishes the initial vaccination series, they will require annual boosters to sustain their immunity.
Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV) Schedule:
Three boosters, given two weeks apart, are recommended. It’s ideal for your cat or kitten to complete this course before going outside. While the vaccine is effective, it’s not foolproof, so testing may be advised if your cat has been in a fight.
Vets in Cranbourne advise keeping cats indoors or within a secure cat enclosure to safeguard them from car accidents, fights with other cats, and the risks associated with hunting local wildlife.
Book an Appointment
Whether for kitten vaccinations or annual boosters, Vets in Cranbourne is here to assist pet owners in Melbourne. Safeguard your cat’s health by booking their vaccinations with us today!
FAQs
Your kitten can usually go outside around one week after their final round of vaccinations. However, it’s always a good idea to check with your vet to make sure they are fully protected.
Vets in Cranbourne recommends keeping cats indoors or in a secure outdoor enclosure to protect their health, ensure their safety, and prevent them from hunting wildlife.
It’s generally advised to postpone vaccinations if your cat is sick. Consult Vets in Cranbourne for specific guidance.
If your cat is overdue, schedule an appointment with your veterinarian. They will assess your cat’s health and may recommend a catch-up vaccination plan.
