Any cat that has not eaten for 24 hours is a cause for concern. after If these side effects last for more than a day or two, or cause your pet significant discomfort, it is important for you to contact your veterinarian: A small, firm swelling under the skin may develop at the site of a recent vaccination. The most commonly available vaccines are used to provide protection against the following infections: Vaccines can be divided into core vaccines and non-core vaccines. There is always risk involved in vaccinating a cat. Cat Vaccination They told me she acted as if she had rabies and informed me I should have her put down. After your cat gets his first shot, hell need a few more doses usually two to four weeks apart until hes 16 to 20 weeks old. Call your veterinarian immediately if your cat is extremely lethargic or if their lethargy occurs in combination with other serious symptoms like difficulty breathing or severe vomiting or diarrhea. It only means that your cat is experiencing these symptoms due to the interaction between his body and the vaccine. In short, almost any health condition can lead to lethargy in cats, including: InfectionsFighting off bacteria, viruses, or other pathogens takes a lot of energy. Many pet owners report their cats not eating after getting their vaccines. 1. Feline leukemia: This serious viral infection spreads through many bodily fluids like saliva, feces, urine, and milk.The vaccine is recommended inkittens and then 12 months later. However, be aware that your cats appetite may not be normal during this period. Some of these problems, like cancer, are more common as pets get older, but lethargy can strike cats at any age. If your cat gets outside, you want to make sure they areprotected. 2023 SeniorCatWellness.com. It should start to disappear within a couple weeks. Brown Pigment In White of Dog's Eye Can Pigmentary Keratitis Cause Blindness? Whether you have a kitten or an adult cat, it should go without saying that vaccines are essential for your pets health and your safety. Make a note of all the changes to your cats behavior. WebLow energy (lethargy) Eating less Sleeping more Fever (high temperature) Mild swelling around the vaccine site that disappears in two - six weeks. She started to get more aggressive. Cat Vaccinations With FHV-1, even after the initial signs subside, most cats will remain permanently infected with the virus and some go on to develop recurrent eye infections or other signs. Kittens should start getting vaccinations when they are 6 to 8 weeks old until they are about 16 weeks old. When a cat is bitten by another cat, an infection is likely to develop. Always inform your veterinarian if your pet has had prior reactions to any vaccine or medication. For further information on FeLV, seeFeline leukaemia virus. There are some risks and side effects associated with cat vaccination. This tumor would need to be removed, and this is not easy around the neck. Is your cat lying around more than normal? Some data suggest that adult animals may maintain immunity for 5-7 years after their initial vaccinations as young animals, suggesting that the annual revaccination veterinarians had recommended for years is not necessary. WebHow will your cat feel after receiving a vaccine? Vaccines and Vaccinations: Individual Animals Future vaccine recommendation will be based on the cat's lifestyle.Feline leukemia cannot be cured, so prevention is a priority. Was her glucose normal? Booster shots are additional shots that will maintain your cats safety against those deadly diseases as the initial protection from his earlier vaccines gets weaker. In the vast majority of cases, your cat will feel fine and you wont notice any change in their behavior. The most common side effects are mild and include lethargy, inappetence or tenderness at the injection site, usually lasting no longer than a few days. So there you have it everything you need to know about cat vaccinations to keep your pet safe from super preventable diseases. These reactions should not be severe. Since then we noticed her behavior changed. WebDecreased appetite and activity. Anyone who cares for his or her cat will want to protect it in this way and vaccination is a critical part of a proper preventive healthcare programme. Just as in humans, vaccinating your cat helps to protect him or her against several serious and/or life-threatening diseases. Very few cats may be allergic to one or more components of the vaccine and have more serious side effects such as difficulty in breathing, vomiting, or diarrhea. We use cookies to improve our website to make sure you have a better browsing experience. FISS can cause a cancerous tumor at the site of the vaccination. Every week we publish insightful pet articles to educate, inspire, and make your life easier. A small, firm swelling under the skin may develop at the site of a recent vaccination. He gave her a shot of cortizone. FeLV is found worldwide. Their guidelines, published by theAmerican Association of Feline Practitioners, are among the most trusted and utilized recommendations in the field. From time to time, check on your cat. WebMany pet owners and some animal scientists believe that we are over vaccinating our pets. WebYou may notice your cat has a temporary loss of appetite or is less lively a day or two after a vaccination, but this should resolve within 24-48 hours. Your vet always tells you how important it is to get your cat vaccinated, but you might still be wondering if its worth it. Because of this, after your cat receives any vaccine, it is sensible to monitor the injection site regularly and if a swelling at the site persists for several weeks and/or continues to enlarge, get it checked immediately by your vet. In the early stages the affected cat may suffer from lethargy and pain in the affected area. You can also use a towel to extract the scent of the other cats and then rub that towel on the cat that visited the vet. Cat vaccination 10 things you should In the early stages the affected cat may suffer from lethargy and pain in the affected area. Chlamydophila felisis a type of bacteria that mainly causes conjunctivitis in cats. I truly love this kitty and want to give her all the time and love that I can. Fearful cats will often display anxiety or even aggression even before the trip to the vet. Ondansetron For Cats (Zofran) All You Need To Know, Mini Hippo Dog - Everything You Need To Know. The inflammation caused by the vaccination activates the malignant tumor and causes it to spread. This allows them to identify one another. I just dont think putting her down without knowing exactly what she has is a reasonable option, but it seems to be the in thing to do these days. Documented reactions in these cases include behavioral aggression and separation anxiety; destruction and shredding of clothing and bedding; obsessive behavior such as barking, fearfulness, self-mutilation, tail chewing; pica (eating wood, stones, earth, and feces); seizures and epilepsy; fibrosarcomas at the injection site; and autoimmune This, in turn, will allow cancerous cells to spread. Every topic on our website is thoroughly researched and professionally written. The viruses are often transmitted by direct or close contact between cats (eg, in sneezed droplets), but they may also survive for short periods in the environment. JUMP TO: Core vaccines | Non-core vaccines | Vaccine costs | Vaccine schedule | Booster shots. The same isnt true for lethargy. As the cat receives its shot, its body starts adapting to the vaccine, causing some changes in the body and function. Cats Have a Reaction to Vaccinations Certain medicationsLethargy can be a side effect of certain medications, including some anti-anxiety and pain-relieving medications commonly given to cats. Talk to your veterinarian if your cats lethargy worsens or fails to improve in a day or two. WebLow energy (lethargy) Eating less Sleeping more Fever (high temperature) Mild swelling around the vaccine site that disappears in two - six weeks. Feline vaccinations are commonly administered by injection, typically behind the legs. You should call the vet for advice if your cat feels ill after 48 hours of vaccination. However, you do not have to worry much about your cat. American Association of Feline Practitioners. Vaccinations An allergic reaction is more concerning than a typical reaction to a vaccine. Lethargic and DroolingDiseases or injuries affecting the mouth are common causes of drooling, and they can cause lethargy too. WebBordetella: Cats who go to the groomer or stay at a kennel may get vaccinated for this infection that spreads quickly in spaces where there are lots of animals. For further information on FIV, seeFeline immunodeficiency virus. Rabies is endemic worldwide, and the vaccine is recommended for all pet cats. Your cat may need extra shots depending on how much time they spendoutside, how often they arearound other cats, and the diseases that are common in your area. Cats Indoor cats may also pick up bacteria and viruses when they stay at a kennel and if you bring a new cat home. Very few cats may be allergic to one or more components of the vaccine and have more serious side effects such as difficulty in breathing, vomiting, or diarrhea. Thank you for supporting International Cat Care through your shop purchases! Provide for his needs and keep some distance. Cats that struggle with this side effect bounce back as quickly as they experienced the issue. A vaccine is usually given by an injection under the skin, although sometimes may be given as drops into the eyes or nose. FISS remains rare. They protect against: The feline viral rhinotracheitis, calicivirus, and panleukopenia vaccinations often come in a combination shot (FVRCP), which is sometimes called the distemper shot.. 1. Which shots they need. This is a cancerous tumor that develops following inflammation around the site of the injection. This happens because the immune response generated by a vaccine can make cats feel tired, achy, and generally unwell. However, in colonies of cats with repeated outbreaks of disease, vaccination may play a role in helping protect cats. Could it be infectious? Even if you reside in a state that doesnt mandate rabies shots by law, it remains advisable. Adverse effects from vaccines are very rare, especially in view of the millions of doses that are administered every year. All rights reserved. In some cases, affected kittens may develop pneumonia. The vaccine wont prevent the disease, but it will keep your kitty from getting very sick from it. Keep in mind that vaccines dont offer total immunity from diseases. 6 Challenges of Owning a Cat You Need to Know, Changes In Cat Behaviour After Vet Visit? Rare vaccine side effects In very rare circumstances, a vaccine can cause a severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis). Cat Heres how to tell the difference between a tired cat and a lethargic cat, some possible causes of the lethargy, and what you should do. Cat Some that may be available include: Vaccination is generally a very safe procedure that has substantially reduced the impact of several very serious diseases. If your cat belongs to the second camp, there are a few things that you can do to make him feel better while recovering. For example, cats that have just been vaccinated are often lethargic. On the other, theyll be more affected by any of the side effects. The most alarming reaction to vaccination is Feline Injection Site Sarcoma (FISS). Cats Have a Reaction to Vaccinations If your cat refuses to eat after getting a shot, you should not worry about it. Cat Behavior After Vaccination A Complete Guide. Because of this, after your cat receives any vaccine, it is sensible to monitor the injection site regularly and if a swelling at the site persists for several weeks and/or continues to enlarge, get it checked immediately by your vet. Most persistently infected cats will die as a result of their infection. These treatments can aggravate problems with the heart and kidneys. He also might. Understanding vaccinosis in dogs and cats The right vaccinations. A lethargic cat can look a lot like a tired cat, but there is an important difference. And when you consider the pain of an injection, you will better understand why your cat may not interact with people and other cats like he usually does. Lethargic and WobblyCats who are wobbly could be suffering from a neurologic problem or metabolic disease, or they could simply be very weak. There are so many possibilities of what it could be. You can try comforting it with some food or drink to alleviate the pain or discomfort associated with vaccination. The vet will also think about how long vaccines are supposed to last and how likely your cat might be to come into contact with a certain disease. This virus is quite common among cats, especially cats that go outdoors and are involved in fighting (infection is mainly spread through cat bites). how long do cat vaccine side effects last, how long do side effects of distemper vaccine last, how long does a vaccine lump last in dogs, how to make cat feel better after vaccines, how to make cat feel better after vaccines uk, negative side effects of rabies vaccine in dogs, side effects of distemper vaccine in cats, side effects of distemper vaccine in dogs, side effects of feline leukemia vaccination, side effects of rabies vaccine in older dogs. Some experts believe that the felines already have tumors. Do Cats Understand Human Smiles And Facial Expressions? And preventive care recommendations for our cats are no exception. In addition, vaccines can cause allergic reactions. And even the most docile kitties sometimes make a run for it. Since then we noticed her behavior changed. Since then we noticed her behavior changed. Basic lab work will often be needed as well. A number of other vaccines may be available in certain countries but not others. Young kittens in multicat households (eg, breeding households) are most likely to be affected and there may also be mild upper respiratory signs. Affected cats typically show sneezing, nasal discharge, conjunctivitis, eye discharge, and mouth ulcers. Well, it totally is. Vaccine Related Sarcomas I have noticed she is not seeing very well but can hear us call her and will follow our calls. Many illnesses will also make a cat lethargic, so its quite likely that a sick or recently vaccinated cat will be lethargic. Do they seem drowsy or out of it? Are they not interested in whats going on around them? Even though its a confusing topic, making sure your cat has the shots they need and keeping up with booster shots is very important. I dont know how long after the vaccines that the signs start. What Are the Side Effects of Vaccinations for Senior Cats? Bordetella: Cats who go to the groomer or stay at a kennel may get vaccinated for this infection that spreads quickly in spaces where there are lots of animals. As vaccinations are injected into a cats leg, some limited mobility is to be expected. WebAfter a vaccine, around one-in-ten cats experience a soft swelling at the injection site. I had then decided to take her to our local emergency vet clinic. Cats Vaccines In other cases, the cat that was recently vaccinated becomes the victim of aggression by the other feline members of your home. However, if you see any severe reactions like swollen eyes or face, breathing difficulty, diarrhea or collapse, you should report to the veterinarian. Your veterinarian can assess your cats risk of FeLV infection and decide on an appropriate vaccination schedule. Anemia (low red blood cell count)A cats body needs the oxygen that red blood cells carry to make energy. WebAffected cats may have sneezing, eye and nasal discharge, conjunctivitis, lethargy, loss of appetite, sores on the gums and soft tissues of the oral cavity, and lameness. While most cats behave normally after vaccination, it is common to see some changes in behavior of your feline friend for a few hours once it gets its vaccine shot. This is a temporary lump that goes away after a couple of weeks and nothing to worry about. The journal Acta Veterinaria Scandinavica has stated that instances remain as low as 1 in 10,000. However, as a charity, we need your support to enable us to keep delivering high quality and up to date information for everyone. But for cats who are older than 1 year and are at low risk of exposure, the FeLV vaccine is considered a non-core vaccine. Some cats are allergic to vaccines. A vet will offeressential vaccinations for your cat. Your purchase directly supports the leading global cat welfare charity, International Cat Care. While cats are not natural carriers for the disease, they can be infected by a bite from any infected mammal and then pass it on to others. Assess whether your cat isnt eating or is just reluctant to walk to its bowl. Vaccines Cat Personality Changes After Vaccination. Vaccinating your cat They also think that some shots may be doing more harm than good. The cat can behave strangely, get aggressive, show lethargy or refuse to eat. However, it is normal for cats to feel ill for a few hours or days after vaccination. If so, your cat is showing the classic signs of lethargy. Recent vaccinationCats may be lethargic for a day or two as their immune system responds to vaccination. It is now common also to recommend a third vaccination (especially for FPV) at 16-20 weeks of age to ensure the kitten is properly protected. Cat vaccination recommendations are among the most contentious debates in veterinary medicine. Some common side effects of feline vaccinations include: These side effects should be short-lived. Feline calicivirusencompasses a number of viral strains that cause signs of upper respiratory infection, such as sneezing and nasal discharge as well as oral ulcerations. Technically, lethargy in cats is never normal, but it is sometimes expected. Outbreaks of infection with this virus are common and a high proportion of affected cats can die. This behavior can last for about a day and your pet should start eating in few hours. It is possible that it has little energy to walk to the bowl after vaccination. 2022 MyCuteAnimals. Vaccination is very effective in preventing disease. We took her to our vet. A potential problem is that vaccinated cats will also test positive on the routine tests used to detect FIV-infected cats, but newer diagnostic assays are becoming available that may overcome this problem. However, these adverse effects should subside after 24 to 48 hours. To help your pet stay healthy, limit their contact with infected animals and to environments where diseases may be more common. These reactions can be life-threatening and are medical emergencies. Get the latest updates on your choice of veterinary topics delivered straight to your inbox. Cat Vaccinations You have to understand that cats that share a home pass each others scent to one another. Is she weak? Lethargy After vaccination, it is normal for your pet to exhibit a few symptoms like fever, lameness, swelling, and 2. Cat Lethargic and Limping After a Vaccine The availability of different vaccines will vary between different countries, because some diseases are not present everywhere, and because vaccines are not necessarily licensed (and therefore available) in every country. Such reactions can occur almost every time the cat gets a shot. But some cats will behave differently. After the cat recovers from the initial infection, the virus enters a latency period in the nerves. They should be left alone to rest and you should see improvement in their condition in a few hours. Here are the general cat vaccination guidelines to use as a starting point: Get practical pet health tips, articles, and insights from our veterinary community delivered weekly to your inbox. Cat Vaccinations Youll need to make an informed decision about whether to vaccinate your cat based on the available medical evidence. Vaccine Related Sarcomas Many cats are fortunate to go into a regressive state and appear perfectly healthy throughout their lives, but some do not fare as well. The core vaccines are considered essential for all cats (including indoor-only cats) because of the widespread and/or severe nature of the diseases being protected against. He did not know what was wrong. However, these adverse effects should subside after 24 to 48 hours. A loss of appetite is a common side effect of vaccinations. Seefeline herpes virusandfeline calicivirus. Although todays veterinarians are working hard to make a pets experience at a clinic less stressful, a visit to the clinic can still be scary for your cat, with all the unfamiliar faces, objects, and scents that he will encounter inside. I cant see how that can be rabies. On the other hand, you can give a cat that is only mildly lethargic and otherwise okay a little time to see if they return to normal on their own. This is because the cat that came from the vet smells differently that the other cat can no longer recognize the first cats scent. Owners should not get concerned if their cat starts acting strange after vaccination. There are many different strains of the FIV virus and it is not entirely clear as of yet how well the available vaccine protects against all these different strains, but studies suggest that it is able to provide a valuable degree of protection for cats at risk of exposure. WebAffected cats may have sneezing, eye and nasal discharge, conjunctivitis, lethargy, loss of appetite, sores on the gums and soft tissues of the oral cavity, and lameness. Understand that your cat is still in recovery and that he may not be his usual self. A small, firm swelling under the skin may develop at the site of a recent vaccination. Rabies is endemic worldwide, and the vaccine is recommended for all pet cats. If you present your cat to a vet with FISS, surgery will be required to remove the tumor. There is always risk involved in vaccinating a cat. Previously, many vets chose to administer shots to the neck. As cats age, they often spend more time quietly observing the world around them (or napping), but this isnt lethargy; its growing up. All rights reserved. If your cat has tolerated vaccinations well in the past, then there is no reason to deny it boosters, provided that its health hasnt recently faltered. Some vaccines are recommended for all cats. In more severe cases, your cat may require intravenous fluids and further observation. But usually, these behavioral changes are temporary in nature. In the early stages the affected cat may suffer from lethargy and pain in the affected area. He told us she had a screw loose and that she had a shot knot. Cats withBordetella bronchispeticacan be treated effectively with appropriate antibiotics, and vaccination is not required in most cats. Dehydration and electrolyte abnormalitiesWater and appropriate electrolyte levels are essential for a cats body to produce energy and function normally. This may include: Tests for feline leukemia virus and feline immunodeficiency virus. Limping This reaction mainly affects young kittens, usually at their first vaccination. If they are outdoor or indoor/outdoor, or they are young cats or seniors, your vet may recommend yearly FVRCP shots. Rabies is a zoonotic disease (it can be transmitted from animals to humans), so it is a public safety issue to keep your cat up to date on their rabies vaccine. Some data suggest that adult animals may maintain immunity for 5-7 years after their initial vaccinations as young animals, suggesting that the annual revaccination veterinarians had recommended for years is not necessary. While it is no longer routinely recommended for grooming or boarding, it may be required by individual businesses. In addition, vaccines can cause allergic reactions.