What vaccinations are used on cats?

There are several core vaccinations recommended for cats, with some additional vaccinations recommended in certain circumstances. The core vaccines are:

1. Feline Panleukopenia (FPL) - Also known as feline distemper, this highly contagious virus can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and severe dehydration, and is often fatal if not treated.

2. Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis (FVR) - Also called feline herpesvirus-1, FVR is a respiratory infection that causes sneezing, nasal discharge, and difficulty breathing. It can also lead to chronic respiratory issues and conjunctivitis.

3. Feline Calicivirus (FCV) - Another respiratory infection, FCV causes sneezing, nasal discharge, and mouth ulcers. Some strains can also cause severe pneumonia.

4. Rabies - Transmitted through the bite of an infected animal, rabies is a fatal disease that affects the brain and nervous system. Vaccination against rabies is legally required in most areas and is recommended for both indoor and outdoor cats.

Additional vaccines may be recommended depending on your cat's lifestyle and risk factors. These include:

- Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV) - This virus is spread through contact with infected saliva, urine, or feces. It can cause a variety of health problems, including leukemia, lymphoma, and anemia. Vaccination is recommended for all cats that go outdoors or have contact with other cats.

- Chlamydia - This bacterial infection causes conjunctivitis and respiratory disease. Vaccination is recommended for cats that live in areas where Chlamydia is common or have contact with other infected cats.

- Bordetella - This bacterial infection causes respiratory disease and is commonly known as "kennel cough." Vaccination is recommended for cats that spend time in boarding facilities, shelters, or other places where they may come into contact with other animals.

Your veterinarian will recommend the appropriate vaccination schedule for your cat based on their individual needs and risk factors. It's important to follow the recommended vaccination schedule to ensure your cat stays protected against these serious diseases.