Vaccinations

Contact with other cats can change throughout life. It is important to keep the immune system “remembering” viruses and how to effectively and rapidly respond. In addition, rabies vaccination is required by law, regardless of the lifestyle of your pet.

FVRCP is a short form for the 3 main viruses included in the feline basic vaccines. FVR is feline viral rhinotracheitis (= herpesvirus). C stands for calicivirus and P for panleukopenia.

Once a cat reaches two years old and beyond, the FVRCP combo vaccine can be given intermittently (e.g. every 2-3 years) depending on lifestyle. It is important not to let the vaccine lapse for too long, or the ability to “boost” a previous vaccine becomes quite weak.

Most cats and kittens will experience no side effects at all after vaccination. A small percentage will act mildly lethargic for a day or two after immunization, after which they bounce back to normal again. Serious side effects are extremely rare.