Cat Vaccination Risks

Generally, cat vaccinations are safe. But in some rare instances, your cat might suffer an adverse reaction to the shots. Feline vaccination risks can range from extremely mild to life-threatening. Before you have your cat vaccinated, it's best to fully understand the risks, so you can be prepared should an emergency occur.

  1. Discomfort

    • Calicivirus vaccination may cause temporary lameness and sore joints. Any feline vaccination can cause discomfort, soreness and tenderness at the site of the injection. These side effects are temporary and should subside within a few days.

    Illness

    • After being vaccinated, a cat may show signs of mild illness. This may include a low-grade fever, decrease in activity and loss of appetite. All of these symptoms should improve from day to day and subside with a few days of being vaccinated.

    Sneezing

    • Sneezing is not uncommon after a cat receives an intranasal or nasal spray vaccine. The sneezing can last four to seven days.

    Swelling

    • Cats also can get a small, firm swelling or lump under the skin at the vaccine site. Typically, this swelling will go away in a few weeks. You should report any swelling after a feline vaccination to your veterinarian.

    Lameness

    • The chlamydia psittaci vaccination can cause lameness, along with fever and loss of appetite in some cats. These symptoms develop between one to three weeks after vaccination. It is considered a mild adverse reaction, but you show let your veterinarian know about it.

    Tumor

    • Though rare, some cats develop a tumor at the site of the vaccination. This can occur within weeks of being vaccinated, but it also can occur years after a vaccination. If you suspect your cat has a tumor, contact your veterinarian immediately.

    Allergic Reactions

    • Adverse reactions to feline vaccinations may include a moderate to severe allergic reaction. Swelling, itching, hives or redness and swelling around the lips, eyes and neck are signs of a moderate allergy that you should bring to the attention of your veterinarian. Signs of severe allergic reaction include vomiting, diarrhea, limping, breathing difficulty, severe rapid swelling, rapid drop in blood pressure and collapse. Severe allergic reactions merit immediate medical attention by your veterinarian.