Bordetella Vaccine for Cats

The Bordetella vaccine helps prevent the contraction of Bordetella bronchiseptica, or Bordetellosis. The disease-causing organism Bordetella causes an upper respiratory infection (URI) that can be life-threatening to your cat. The Bordetella vaccination can be beneficial for your cat; however, it's important to understand that vaccines may not always prevent infection.

  1. High Risk

    • The Bordetella vaccine is not recommended for all cats and situations. It should only be given to cats that are at a higher risk of developing disease associated with Bordetella bronchiseptica. Cats living in or entering rescue shelters and households with multiple cats or indoor/outdoor cats have the highest risk of exposure. In addition, kittens are highly susceptible. For cats at risk, the vaccine is effective and safe.

    Health

    • According to the Cornell Feline Health Center, studies have been conducted by the manufacturer of the Bordetella vaccine which indicate that it may reduce the severity of disease in infected cats. The Bordetella vaccination helps fight infections of the respiratory tract and may prevent coughing, runny nose, runny eyes, sneezing, fever or even death. If you notice any of these symptoms, contact your veterinarian immediately.

    Benefits

    • Intranasal vaccines, such as the Bordetella vaccine, offer better protection against respiratory tract viral and bacterial infections. In addition, compared to an injectable vaccine, the Bordetella vaccine is less likely to cause an allergic reaction.

    Disadvantages

    • Cats dislike intranasal injections and will try to get away during the procedure. The injections may induce a mild upper respiratory tract infection. You may see symptoms of sneezing and coughing. In addition, Pet Informed notes, "Intranasal Bordetella vaccines accidentally injected can cause severe liver damage and even death of the animal."

    Administration

    • Feline Bordetella may be prevented through an intranasal vaccine, also known as the Protex-Bb vaccine, which is administered by a squirt of vaccine up the nose. According to Michael S. Samuels, D.V.M., of the Central Animal Hospital, the vaccine can protect your cat within two days of administration. Cats who are at a risk of developing Bordetella bronchiseptica may be vaccinated every six months. However, only a single dose is required each year.