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My cat stays inside.....does he REALLY need those vaccines?

Maybe you are like me......you can't resist those tiny meows, the reaching paws, and the pleading looks as you walk past the kittens at your local animal shelter. 
The struggle is real! All kidding aside, go save a life today!  That kitten or adult cat will forever be grateful. Here are some interesting facts about shelter cats:
  • Kittens are almost always adopted before adult cats - but after the first year, how can you tell the difference?  Adopt an adult cat or senior cat today!
  • Calico cats are always female and usually the first chosen because they are "pretty." However, they can have a bit more "attitude" than other cats.
  • Orange cats are ALMOST always male.  There are a couple females out there.
  • Black cats are always adopted last, and are usually the first to be euthanized in an overcrowded shelter.  Go adopt a black cat today!
Ok, so, you ARE like me and couldn't resist.  You brought the furry little bundle of joy home, and can't wait to have him sleep on your lap on the couch and next to you in bed at night (or in the case of my cat, he sleeps across my neck at night).  You've heard that vaccines are important, but what about if your cat is strictly indoors?  Are those vaccines really necessary? 
Absolutely!  First, if you ever plan on boarding your cat, those vaccines will be required, so that's an easy reason.  But, did you know that you can bring viruses home on your clothing that can be spread to your cat?  Finally, the Rabies vaccine is required by law. Period.  Rabies quarantines are costly and lengthy should your cat ever bite someone.

So, let's dive in and discuss the vaccines your cat should receive and how often.

PCT (Panleukopenia, Calici, Rhinotracheitis): Many people will compare this to the dog Distemper vaccine, as it has many important parts, but does protect against different feline diseases. 

Panleukopenia is a highly contagious, often fatal disease that can affect the gastrointestinal, neurologic, and immune system of cats. 

Calici Virus is a highly contagious and common cause of upper respiratory disease in cats. It can lead to ulcers in the mouth and on the eyes as well as eye and nasal discharge.

The final component of this vaccine is protection against the Rhinotracheitis (Herpes) Virus. This is another highly contagious and common cause of upper respiratory disease in cats. No, this Herpes is not contagious to humans. However, if your cat has Herpes, he/she will always have Herpes, just like humans. Episodes come up in times of stress, and can be every few months or every few years. It is important for even indoor cats to receive this vaccine. Kittens should receive this vaccine at 8, 12 and 16 weeks. Mom’s antibodies will disappear around 4 months of age and this final booster at this specific time is so important to protect your cat for the year going forward! Next year your cat can receive a three year vaccine.

Rabies: This is an almost always fatal neurologic disease contracted by the bite of an infected animal. Not only is this vaccine required by law, but it is a zoonotic disease (meaning you can get it from your pet). More than 59,000 people die of Rabies each year, which is about 1 person dying of Rabies every 9 minutes. Let’s prevent that in your family! Your kitten should receive this vaccine around 16 weeks of age. The first vaccine is counted as a 1 year vaccine, then he/she can receive a 2 or 3 year vaccine depending on what state you live in.

Leukemia: This virus is spread between cats by saliva in bite wounds, and also through respiratory secretions. Leukemia will weaken your cat’s immune system, and may lead to blood disorders and/or cancer. It is a very important vaccine for all outdoor cats and even some indoor cats. No, this leukemia virus is not contagious to humans. Kittens should receive their first vaccine at 12 weeks, and then a booster at 16 weeks. The following year, he/she can receive a 2 year vaccine.

A special note about cat vaccines……………………...all feline vaccines should be given as low as possible in a HIND leg, or in the tail. Cats can form an exaggerated inflammatory response to vaccines, leading to issues down the road at the injection site. Please ask where your Veterinarian is planning on giving your cat his/her vaccines! Do not let this deter you from getting these life-saving vaccines, just be sure they are given in the proper location!
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