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Feline Core Vaccines

FVRCP: Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis, Clicivirus, Panleukopenia, and Chlamydia Psittaci

Rhinotracheitis

A herpes virus that attacks the eyes, nasal passages, and the trachea (windpipe) in cats. Transmission occurs from direct contact with an infected cat or contacts with bodily secretions (discharge from the eyes, nose, or mouth) of infected cats. Contaminated objects, like clothes, shoes, and unwashed hands can also spread Rhinotracheitis. Adult cats infected with Rhinotracheitis can suffer from chronic sneezing. Humans cannot contract Rhinotracheitis.

Rhinotracheitis can cause:

  • Sneezing
  • Coughing
  • Runny eyes
  • Loss of appetite
  • Secondary bacterial infections
  • Pneumonia

Calicivirus

A virus that causes mild to serious upper respiratory illnesses. Direct contact with an infected cat or inhalation of the virus is the typical means of transmission. Contact with contaminated objects can also cause infection. Recovered cats may shed the virus for weeks or even years. Humans cannot be infected with Calicivirus. The original Calicivirus has mutated into a new strain. The new virus is called Virulent Systemic Feline Calicivirus. It is not covered by the annual FVRCP vaccination.

Calicivirus can cause:

  • Runny eyes and nose
  • Sneezing
  • Depression
  • Poor appetite
  • Ulcers on the mouth and hard palate
  • Excessive salivation (drooling)
  • Death

Panleukopenia

Another potentially deadly disease that can be spread by direct contact or bodily secretions, especially feces. This virus is very hardy and can live in the environment for a long time. Panleukopenia can be passed to offspring while still in the uterus, causing birth defects. Panleukopenia is not transmissible to humans.

Panleukopenia can cause:

  • Fever
  • Lack of appetite
  • Vomiting
  • Dehydration
  • Depression
  • Secondary Pneumonia

Chlamydia Psittaci

A bacteria-like organism that can infect many species, including humans. While there are many strains of Chlamydia Psittaci, none infect dogs. It is spread through direct contact with an infected animal, typically through discharge from the eyes.

Chlamydia Psittaci can cause:

  • Swollen, irritated eyes
  • Discharge from the eye
  • Upper respiratory illness
  • Blisters around the eye

Which Cats Should Be Vaccinated With FVRCP?

  • Adult cats should receive a booster yearly
  • Kittens 6 weeks or older should receive a series of 3 boosters 2-4 weeks apart
  • Any adult cat without a history of vaccination should receive a series of 2 boosters and then receive yearly boosters

Ask Your Veterinarian Before Vaccinating If:

  • Your cat has had a previous allergic reaction to FVRCP
  • Your cat is pregnant or lactating (nursing)
  • Your cat is ill
  • Your cat has been previously diagnosed with a disease or disorder

How Can I Learn More? Talk with one of our veterinarians today!

Rabies Vaccine

What is Rabies?

Rabies is a fatal disease caused by a virus that can infect all warm-blooded animals. This virus is spread through saliva, typically when an animal bites another animal or a human. Bats, skunks, foxes, and raccoons are the most common carriers of the Rabies virus.

Rabies can cause:

  • Behavior changes
  • Restlessness
  • Excitability
  • Trouble swallowing
  • Excessive salivation (drool)
  • Aggressive behavior
  • Convulsions
  • Paralysis
  • Death

Which Cats Should Be Vaccinated for Rabies?

Cedarburg City Ordinances require both dogs and cats to be vaccinated for rabies

  • Both cats and dogs should receive their first rabies vaccination before 5 months of age
  • Adult dogs and cats should receive a booster within one year after the initial rabies vaccine (followed by boosters every three years)

Rabies vaccination is required to license an animal with the city (Licensing is required in the city of Cedarburg.)

Ask Your Veterinarian Before Vaccinating If:

  • Your cat has had a previous allergic reaction to the rabies vaccine, or other vaccines
  • Your cat is pregnant or lactating (nursing)
  • Your cat is ill
  • Your cat has been previously diagnosed with a disease or disorder

How Can I Learn More? Talk with one of our veterinarians today!

Non-Core Vaccinations

Feline Leukemia Vaccine

What is Feline Leukemia?

Feline leukemia, or FeLK, is a virus spread by body excretions, which only affects cats. The most common form of infection is bite wounds, but can be spread between cats by sharing food and water dishes, litter boxes, and from a mother cat to her young through milk. FeLK is not transmissible to humans. Symptoms will vary depending on the cat. Luckily, there is a blood test to determine if your kitten has been exposed.

Feline Leukemia can cause:

  • Anemia
  • Fever
  • Enlargement of Lymph nodes
  • Excessive urination
  • Excessive thirst
  • Jaundice (yellowing of nose, ears, and eyes)
  • Lethargy
  • Loss of appetite
  • Upper respiratory tract infections
  • Death

Who Should Be Vaccinated For Feline Leukemia?

  • Cats that are allowed outside or free-roaming cats
  • Cats in a household with a Feline Leukemia positive cat
  • Multiple cat households
  • Any cat who may have contact with a Feline Leukemia positive cat

Ask Your Veterinarian Before Vaccinating If:

  • Your cat has had a previous allergic reaction to the FeLK vaccine or other vaccines
  • Your cat is pregnant or lactating (nursing)
  • Your cat is ill
  • Your cat has been previously diagnosed with a disease or disorder