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. 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. Recommendations for treatment or additional diagnostic testing will be based on the specifics of your cats case and the results of their initial workup. While most cats behave normally after vaccination, it is common 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. Many illnesses will also make a cat lethargic, so its quite likely that a sick or recently vaccinated cat will be lethargic. Basic lab work will often be needed as well. It is not entirely clear why cats experience FISS. Its rare, but it does happen. Featured image: iStock.com/GoodLifeStudio. The other three core vaccines are combined into a single three-in-one vaccine called the FVRCP vaccine. In some cases, it also causes oral ulceration andpneumonia. 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. 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. Some cats even exhibit lingering fear and anxiety days after coming from the vet. Keep track of product alerts for pet foods, animal feed, and products used by veterinarians or animal owners. After vaccination, some cats will go back to their routines as if nothing happened to them. WebThere are usually three distinctive stages with rabies in cats. Some people are tempted to use homoeopathic vaccines or may have these recommended by a friend. Can you give me any feedback on your impressions and how I need to proceed with continued love and care for my little one? Some symptoms you can expect to see include sneezing, nasal congestion and discharge, andconjunctivitis. 1. You can try comforting it with some food or drink to alleviate the pain or discomfort associated with vaccination. Also, she wants to clean herself and tries to play like she used to. 2022 MyCuteAnimals. Your purchase directly supports the leading global cat welfare charity, International Cat Care. Again, this is normal behavior. Most cats will need booster shots every one to three years, but always double-check with your vet to make sure because thats something youll want to stay on top of. These treatments can aggravate problems with the heart and kidneys. Now, I am here on the internet trying to get answers. Even if you reside in a state that doesnt mandate rabies shots by law, it remains advisable. The inflammation caused by the vaccination activates the malignant tumor and causes it to spread. If you let your cat go outdoors, you should probably consider giving him non-core vaccines, since you have no idea what he could be exposed to outside. Mild signs, such as tiredness, mild fever, and decreased appetite, may be present for a short time. Less common side effects include: Twitching Itchy skin Vomiting Diarrhoea Limping. There are some clinics that will vaccinate your cat for free. And if youre about to adopt a cat, some rescues and shelters will include the costs of the vaccines he already got in your cats adoption fees. Therefore, veterinarians will often focus on any other symptoms a cat might have when they are trying to figure out what is wrong. If you go to the vet, you can probably expect an office visit charge in addition to the cost of the vaccine. Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information, Feline viral rhinotracheitis (aka feline herpes virus): a disease that affects your cats upper respiratory system and sometimes his eyes, Feline calicivirus: a disease that causes respiratory infections and oral diseases, Feline panleukopenia virus: a disease that dangerously lowers your cats white blood cell count. This is a temporary lump that goes away after a couple of weeks and nothing to worry about. Vaccines are necessary for most cats, especially those that spend most of their time outdoors. All vaccines have to undergo rigorous safety and efficacy testing before they are licensed for use in cats by regulatory authorities. WebMany pet owners and some animal scientists believe that we are over vaccinating our pets. Affected cats typically show sneezing, nasal discharge, conjunctivitis, eye discharge, and mouth ulcers. Sneezing, mild coughing, "snotty nose" or other respiratory signs may occur 2-5 days after your pet receives an intranasal vaccine. Copyright 1999 - 2023. Sometimes, a cat can become aggressive to their humans and other pets in the household after vaccination or even after a visit to the vet for other purposes. Attend topical CE meetings on subjects including animal welfare, wellbeing, economics, and public policy. 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. Was her glucose normal? Dehydration and electrolyte abnormalitiesWater and appropriate electrolyte levels are essential for a cats body to produce energy and function normally. This is a cancerous tumor that develops following inflammation around the site of the injection. When a cat is bitten by another cat, an infection is likely to develop. If you see your cat shivering after vaccination, it can be from the pain or swelling at the injection site. Owners should not get concerned if their cat starts acting strange after vaccination. 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. While most cats behave normally after vaccination, it is common Since then we noticed her behavior changed. Talk to your vet to figure out which approach is best for your pet. It can also be helpful to provide him with his favorite treats. iCatCare may receive a commission or share in the net profit of some purchases made through the affiliate links. Senior cats may slow down a bit more, but extreme or sudden changes are usually a sign of a health problem. However, a trip to the clinic is often a traumatizing experience for most cats. This is because the vaccine causes a chemical reaction in a cats brain. Among the behavioral changes that you can see in your cat are lethargy, aggression, and fear. Then the next day I called him back because She started to get more aggressive. Please consider making a contribution, big or small, to keep our content free, accurate and relevant. The journal Acta Veterinaria Scandinavica has stated that instances remain as low as 1 in 10,000. Not all vaccines must be injected. Cat Behavior After Vaccination A Complete Guide. They can also strengthen theirimmune system. In this stage, a rabid cat will usually exhibit changes in behavior that aren't typical for their personality: A shy cat can become 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. To help your pet stay healthy, limit their contact with infected animals and to environments where diseases may be more common. They also think that some shots may be doing more harm than good. 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. Previously, many vets chose to administer shots to the neck. While the rabies vaccine is not listed as a core vaccine by the AAFP guidelines, it is required by law in most regions. Dog Ate Uncooked Rice? WebHow will your cat feel after receiving 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. Which shots they need. They also think that some shots may be doing more harm than good. Do they seem drowsy or out of it? Are they not interested in whats going on around them? All rights reserved. Understand that your cat is still in recovery and that he may not be his usual self. He told us she had a screw loose and that she had a shot knot. After an incubation stage, clinical signs of aggression, disorientation, and death rapidly progress. This will help minimize aggression because they will be both familiar with the scents in the clinic. However, you do not have to worry much about your cat. Flat Feet In Dogs UPDATED 2022 A Complete Guide. 1. The side effect that has received the most attention in recent years is fibrosarcoma this is a type of malignant tumour that can develop at the site of vaccination. Also, other vaccinations are highly recommended to protect your cat against infectious diseases. But is it possible for vaccines to alter a cats personality? Diarrhea is also a possibility for the same reasons. 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. FISS can cause a cancerous tumor at the site of the vaccination. 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. Youll need to make an informed decision about whether to vaccinate your cat based on the available medical evidence. Cats heading into stressful situations, such as boarding, may benefit from a core vaccine booster 7-10 days before. 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 For further information on FeLV, seeFeline leukaemia virus. Since then we noticed her behavior changed. 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. You can find out more about infectious upper respiratory disease at Todays Veterinary Practice (TVP). American Association of Feline Practitioners, Feline rhinotracheitis virus/herpesvirus 1 (FVR/FHV-1), How likely they are to be exposed to a pathogen, FVRCP (core; only if first shot given at 10-12 weeks), FeLV (core; only if first shot given at 10-12 weeks), FVRCP (every 3 years for indoor cats, and every year for indoor/outdoor, outdoor-only, very young, or senior cats), Rabies (1-year or 3-year vaccine depending on state laws). Seefeline herpes virusandfeline calicivirus. Cats that stay at a boarding cattery will generally require an annual vaccination (or booster vaccine before the cat goes into the cattery) as this is a higher risk situation. When the underlying cause can be successfully treated, the lethargy should resolve as well. The virus also kills off white blood cells, leaving the young cats even more susceptible to secondary infections. In some cases, affected kittens may develop pneumonia. If youre up too late, youll be tired the next day but will feel fine once you get some extra sleep. When a cat is bitten by another cat, an infection is likely to develop. By clicking Subscribe, I agree to the WebMD, Smart Grocery Shopping When You Have Diabetes, Surprising Things You Didn't Know About Dogs and Cats, Smoking Pot Every Day Linked to Heart Risks, Artificial Sweetener Linked to Heart Risks, FDA Authorizes First At-Home Test for COVID and Flu, New Book: Take Control of Your Heart Disease Risk, MINOCA: The Heart Attack You Didnt See Coming, Health News and Information, Delivered to Your Inbox, Panleukopenia (also known as feline distemper). We took her to our vet. During times of stress, the virus can reactivate, and the cat can start to show signs of infection againeven if they have not been re-exposed to the disease. Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar)Glucose (a type of sugar) is needed to fuel cells in a cats body, especially in the brain. This will give the feline enough time to groom and make himself smell familiar to the other cats. Adult cats need shots less often, usually every year or every 3 years, depending on how long a vaccine is designed to last. One type of cancer in cats, for example, is known to be caused by vaccinations. Cat Behavior After Vaccination A Complete Guide. However, be aware that your cats appetite may not be normal during this period. He told us she had a screw loose and that she had a shot knot. WebDecreased appetite and activity. Rabies is endemic worldwide, and the vaccine is recommended for all pet cats. Cats of any age can get FeLV, but its typically considered a core vaccine for cats under 1 year old. PainIts difficult for a cat to move around or be interested in much of anything if they are in moderate to severe pain. The factors that your veterinarian will consider to determine yourcats vaccination scheduleinclude: Discuss your cats lifestyle and risk factors with your veterinarian to determine an optimal, individualized vaccination protocol. It is a preparation designed to provide protection against a specific infectious disease through stimulating an immune response that will protect the cat if it is subsequently exposed to the infection. The disease can negatively impact your cats immune system or cause anemia or cancer. The Veterinary Leadership Conference draws veterinarians from across the U.S. for education sessions that help develop leaders for the veterinary profession. A vaccination against rabies would usually happen in the right back leg, while a vaccination for FVCRP would happen in the right front leg. You have to understand that cats that share a home pass each others scent to one another. 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. However, after that, the frequency of booster vaccinations may be only every 1-3 years depending on the vaccine, disease and risk of with the individual cat. In this stage, a rabid cat will usually exhibit changes in behavior that aren't typical for their personality: A shy cat can become Get the latest updates on your choice of veterinary topics delivered straight to your inbox. It might be tempting to sit beside your pet to give him comfort. Because fibrosarcomas can be very difficult to completely remove by surgery, it has been recommended by groups in the USA that rabies vaccines are given in the right hind leg, FeLV vaccines in the left hind leg and FHV-1/FCV vaccines in the right front leg. Cats can be allergic to anything. You should call the vet for advice if your cat feels ill after 48 hours of vaccination. The most commonly reported problem in cats is sleeping. Another sign of FISS includes the lump exceeding 2cm in diameter, especially if it keeps growing. 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. Mild reactions can include a variety of symptoms such as mild fever, lethargy, poor appetite, sneezing or respiratory problems, slight discomfort at the injection site, slight swelling at the injection site, and vomiting. Some that may be available include: Vaccination is generally a very safe procedure that has substantially reduced the impact of several very serious diseases. WebLow energy (lethargy) Eating less Sleeping more Fever (high temperature) Mild swelling around the vaccine site that disappears in two - six weeks. Find whether it does not have an appetite or it is not willing to walk to its bowl. Here at MyCuteAnimals.com we cover everything from training, care, health, nutrition, breeds, products, and much more. There is always risk involved in vaccinating a cat. Vaccines are medication and like other medical treatments, have their own potential adverse effects. Lethargy After vaccination, it is normal for your pet to exhibit a few symptoms like fever, lameness, swelling, and 2. Some cats are allergic to vaccines. 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. You have to consider the fact that visiting the vet often entails a lot of things that can be scary for your pet, including getting handled by the clinic staff. In most cases, the risks posed by vaccination are outweighed by the safety that vaccines provide. The cat can behave strangely, get aggressive, show lethargy or refuse to eat. 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. Designate this as his recovery area where he can rest without being disturbed by the other members of the household. The virus can also survive for long periods in the environment so vaccination is the only real way to protect cats. Sneezing, mild coughing, "snotty nose" or other respiratory signs may occur 2-5 days after your pet receives an intranasal vaccine. If it persists more than three weeks, or seems to be getting larger, you should contact your veterinarian. Every week we publish insightful pet articles to educate, inspire, and make your life easier. Older cats have weaker immune systems and are more prone to illness. 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. If your cat seems to have undergone a complete personality transformation, seek further guidance from a vet. Some cats may also have trouble walking and experience stomach upsets. Dr. Debra, Recently, my kitten (2 months old) had her first installment of vaccinations. 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.. Lethargic and Losing WeightA poor appetite can lead to weight loss, but so can diseases like hyperthyroidism or diabetes, even if your cat is eating well. As a pet owner, one of your first responsibilities is to get your four-legged friend vaccinated on schedule. Vaccination causes a chemical reaction in the cats brain that lasts 24-48 hours. Limping This reaction mainly affects young kittens, usually at their first vaccination. 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. But usually, these behavioral changes are temporary in nature. Your veterinarian can assess your cats risk of FeLV infection and decide on an appropriate vaccination schedule. Kittens and seniors tend to have fewer reserves and be a bit more fragile than adults in their prime, so lethargy may develop more quickly or be more severe in the very young or very old. Fearful cats will often display anxiety or even aggression even before the trip to the vet. Rare vaccine side effects In very rare circumstances, a vaccine can cause a severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis). 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. A lethargic cat can look a lot like a tired cat, but there is an important difference. Signs that your cat is allergic to the vaccination include: These reactions will be treated with steroids or antihistamines to reduce the impact of the allergy. However, your pet may want to be alone during this period. In the early stages the affected cat may suffer from lethargy and pain in the affected area. Thank you for supporting International Cat Care through your shop purchases! Talk to your veterinarian if your cats lethargy does not improve. If in doubt, wait for 30-60 minutes following vaccination before taking your pet home. There is always risk involved in vaccinating a cat. In addition, vaccines can cause allergic reactions. All vaccines have the potential to cause side effects in cats. Certain medicationsLethargy can be a side effect of certain medications, including some anti-anxiety and pain-relieving medications commonly given to cats. However, if you see any severe reactions like swollen eyes or face, breathing difficulty, diarrhea or collapse, you should report to the veterinarian. If they are outdoor or indoor/outdoor, or they are young cats or seniors, your vet may recommend yearly FVRCP shots. As the cat receives its shot, its body starts adapting to the vaccine, causing some changes in the body and function. Get practical pet health tips, articles, and insights from our veterinary community delivered weekly to your inbox. The first one is called the prodromal stage. 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 Many cats experience mild side effects after vaccination like fever, lethargy, swelling and reduced energy. 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. A small, firm swelling under the skin may develop at the site of a recent vaccination. 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. A number of FeLV vaccines are also available and are effective in protecting cats. In the early stages the affected cat may suffer from lethargy and pain in the affected area. To make a diagnosis, your veterinarian will start by taking a thorough health history and performing a complete physical examination. Most persistently infected cats will die as a result of their infection. In the vast majority of cases, your cat will feel fine and you wont notice any change in their behavior. The shots come in a series every 3 to 4 weeks. What Are the Most Common Side Effects of Cat Vaccinations? In some cases, affected kittens may develop pneumonia. He did not know what was wrong. Limping This reaction mainly affects young kittens, usually at their first vaccination. The first one is called the prodromal stage. As a cat receives a shot, its immune system responds to the antibodies, causing it to look sick and uneasy. Sneezing, mild coughing, "snotty nose" or other respiratory signs may occur 2-5 days after your pet receives an intranasal vaccine. The FeLV vaccine is recommended as core for kittens. However, these adverse effects should subside after 24 to 48 hours. WebSome cats will develop a mild reaction that may last for a few days to a week after the vaccination. In other cases, the cat that was recently vaccinated becomes the victim of aggression by the other feline members of your home. These reactions should not be severe. Though rare, your cat may undergo a complete personality change. This virus is quite common among cats, especially cats that go outdoors and are involved in fighting (infection is mainly spread through cat bites). Many illnesses will also make a cat lethargic, so its quite likely that a sick or recently vaccinated cat will be lethargic. These symptoms are common and should subside independently in a few hours. They provide cat owners, veterinary professionals and those who live and work with cats the resources, support, and advice they need to better care for cats. After an incubation stage, clinical signs of aggression, disorientation, and death rapidly progress. I truly love this kitty and want to give her all the time and love that I can. Rabies vaccination is given every year or every three years, depending on state laws and the brand of vaccine used. Cats that struggle with this side effect bounce back as quickly as they experienced the issue. Id encourage her to eat hand feed her, give her some smelling food, whatever it takes to get her to eat. They should be left alone to rest and you should see improvement in their condition in a few hours. Cat booster shots Lethargic and VomitingVomiting is seen with problems directly affecting the digestive tract (inflammatory bowel disease, for example) and metabolic diseases like diabetes or kidney failure.