Cat Vaccinations
Vaccines are key to protecting cats from infectious diseases that cause illness and even death to unprotected cats.
Some vaccines are described as "Core", meaning that all cats should receive them, as they protect against diseases that all cats are at risk of.
Others are "Non-Core" and are only required if a cat is at particular risk - our vets will be able to help you decide what vaccination programme is right for your cat.
Vaccines protect against:
(1) Feline Herpes Virus. This is one of the main causes of Cat Flu, and it also attacks the eyes. It's a particularly nasty virus because once infected, most cats will remain carriers for life, as the virus hides away in their nerves even after they have apparently recovered. When they get ill, or stressed, the virus will re-emerge from hiding again.
(2) Feline Calicivirus. This is another cause of Cat Flu, but can cause more severe symptoms, including ulceration of the mouth and nose, arthritis, abnormal bleeding, and can be fatal.
(3) Panleukopenia. This is also known as Feline Parvovirus, and is a nasty aggressive virus that attacks a cat's bone marrow and gut, causing vomiting and diarrhoea followed by collapse of their immune system.
(4) Feline Leukaemia. This virus is spread by close contact (biting, grooming, or sharing food and water bowls) and attacks the cat's immune system. Once infected, the incubation period may last for months or even years, but will eventually destroy their immune system. It can also lead to the development of cancers, particularly leukaemia and lymphoma.
(5) Feline Chlamydia. This is an uncommon cause of cat flu, and is caused by a bacterium (Chlamydophila felis). Disease is most common in large colonies, especially among breeding groups.
(6) Rabies. Although not present in Ireland, rabies is a highly dangerous disease which can infect any mammal, including humans. Once symptoms occur, the disease is almost 100% fatal. Any cat wanting to visit Europe or most other countries MUST be fully vaccinated before they leave. There is no treatment, and infected cats must be put down to prevent their suffering and to protect the public. The vaccine requires a single injection and must be repeated every 3 years.