Cat Vaccination & Pain

Cat vaccinations, usually administered as injections, are given to produce immunity against certain diseases. Some vaccines available to cats help prevent diseases such as panleukopenia, feline calici virus, chlamydia, feline leukemia and rabies. While vaccinations are important, they may involve pain.

  1. Consult Your Veterinarian

    • Vaccinations should be done on a regular basis; however, it's important to consult your veterinarian as to which vaccinations are appropriate for your cat. Your veterinarian will go over your cat's history, age and health.

    Advantage of Cat Vaccinations

    • Vaccines are important in managing your cat's health. In addition, they can save your cat's life as they help prepare her immune system for fighting off serious diseases.

    Disadvantage of Cat Vaccinations

    • According to the Humane Society of the United States, "Recent reports have indicated that a particularly nasty type of cancer may develop as a result of vaccination in cats, and that cancer is called a 'vaccine-associated sarcoma.'" Cancer is not only painful, but also life threatening.

    Pain

    • Vaccinations may cause pain or discomfort for your cat at the time of injection and after you bring him home. Pain and swelling may occur at the injection site 30 minutes to one week after the vaccination. Contact your veterinarian if signs of pain appear severe or last longer than one week.

    Side Effects

    • Side effects may occur as a result of vaccinations. According to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, "Immunizations are supposed to mildly stimulate the animal's immune system in order to create protection from specific infectious diseases. This stimulation can create mild symptoms, ranging from soreness at the injection site to fever and allergic reactions."