Mild signs, such as tiredness, mild fever, and decreased appetite, may be present for a short time. He gave her a shot of cortizone. In comparison, healthy kittens are never lethargic. Independence America Holdings Corp. All Rights Reserved. Press Enter / Return to begin your search. Because of this, after your cat receives any vaccine, it is sensible to monitor the injection site regularly and if a swelling at the site persists for several weeks and/or continues to enlarge, get it checked immediately by your vet. Though rare, your cat may undergo a complete personality change. In the early stages the affected cat may suffer from lethargy and pain in the affected area. A Complete Guide, 10 Fun Facts About Cat Teeth You Probably Didnt Know Until Now, Interrupted Labour In Cats UPDATED 2022 A Complete Guide, Cat Claw Growing Out of Pad? 1. JUMP TO: Core vaccines | Non-core vaccines | Vaccine costs | Vaccine schedule | Booster shots. These protect against the following conditions: Of these vaccines, rabies is the only one that is required by law in most U.S. states. The American Association of Feline Practitioners also considers the FVCRP to be a core vaccine. The non-core costs range from $15 to $20 for the year. Feline panleucopenia virus(also known as feline parvovirus or feline infectious enteritis) is a severe and frequently fatal cause of haemorrhagic gastroenteritis. iCatCare may receive a commission or share in the net profit of some purchases made through the affiliate links. There is always risk involved in vaccinating a cat. Booster shots are additional shots that will maintain your cats safety against those deadly diseases as the initial protection from his earlier vaccines gets weaker. FeLVis an important disease that can be spread through fighting, through mutual grooming, and through sharing of food/water bowls and litter trays. In some cases, affected kittens may develop pneumonia. I'm experienced in all cat health-related matters, behavioral issues, grooming techniques, and general pet care. Thank you for supporting International Cat Care through your shop purchases! Anemia (low red blood cell count)A cats body needs the oxygen that red blood cells carry to make energy. However, if you see any severe reactions like swollen eyes or face, breathing difficulty, diarrhea or collapse, you should report to the veterinarian. Many illnesses will also make a cat lethargic, so its quite likely that a sick or recently vaccinated cat will be lethargic. Non-core vaccines are only given to cats if there is a genuine risk of exposure to the infection and if vaccination would provide good protection. WebMany pet owners and some animal scientists believe that we are over vaccinating our pets. Both of these viruses are ubiquitous in cat populations, and because infection is so common, and can often be quite severe (especially in younger cats), vaccination is considered important for all cats. The FVCRP vaccine is most likely to cause limping because lameness is a symptom of feline calicivirus. Dr. Debra, Recently, my kitten (2 months old) had her first installment of vaccinations. This virus is quite common among cats, especially cats that go outdoors and are involved in fighting (infection is mainly spread through cat bites). Documented reactions in these cases include behavioral aggression and separation anxiety; destruction and shredding of clothing and bedding; obsessive behavior such as barking, fearfulness, self-mutilation, tail chewing; pica (eating wood, stones, earth, and feces); seizures and epilepsy; fibrosarcomas at the injection site; and autoimmune If your cat is still unwell 48 hours after its vaccination, then you should call your vet for advice. Some people are tempted to use homoeopathic vaccines or may have these recommended by a friend. Very few cats may be allergic to one or more components of the vaccine and have more serious side effects such as difficulty in breathing, vomiting, or diarrhea. WebLow energy (lethargy) Eating less Sleeping more Fever (high temperature) Mild swelling around the vaccine site that disappears in two - six weeks. Sometimes, the pet may even need further observation or other treatments. They include: If your cat stays inside all of the time, you might think they areautomatically protected from these kinds of diseases. And when you consider the pain of an injection, you will better understand why your cat may not interact with people and other cats like he usually does. Your cat may experience a small amount of swelling at the injection site, making it more difficult for your cat to move. Start your day with heartwarming and hilarious animal stories that will make you fall in love. Tiredness is a temporary state that resolves with rest or sleep. In short, almost any health condition can lead to lethargy in cats, including: InfectionsFighting off bacteria, viruses, or other pathogens takes a lot of energy. Transmitted through body fluids including saliva, urine, and feces, FeLV is spread when an infected cat comes into close contact with another cat that they groom or share bowls with. This is more likely for older cats with arthritis or joint pain. This will give the other cats something familiar to smell in the recently vaccinated pet. What Are the Side Effects of Vaccinations for Senior Cats? However, these adverse effects should subside after 24 to 48 hours. Mild reactions can include a variety of symptoms such as mild fever, lethargy, poor appetite, sneezing or respiratory problems, slight discomfort at the injection site, slight swelling at the injection site, and vomiting. You should always discuss with your vet what vaccines your own cat may require. The first one is called the prodromal stage. There are many different strains of the FIV virus and it is not entirely clear as of yet how well the available vaccine protects against all these different strains, but studies suggest that it is able to provide a valuable degree of protection for cats at risk of exposure. Lethargic and Losing WeightA poor appetite can lead to weight loss, but so can diseases like hyperthyroidism or diabetes, even if your cat is eating well. This allows veterinarians to efficiently administer the vaccines all at once, instead of having to inject a cat three separate times in one visit: If your cat is an indoor adult cat, FVRCP can be done every three years. Affected cats typically show sneezing, nasal discharge, conjunctivitis, eye discharge, and mouth ulcers. All rights reserved. All vaccines have the potential to cause side effects in cats. If your cat belongs to the second camp, there are a few things that you can do to make him feel better while recovering. He told us she had a screw loose and that she had a shot knot. This is partly because, should a fibrosarcoma develop at these sites, limb amputation is possible and offers a better chance of complete removal than trying to remove an invasive tumour from the neck region. A cat that does not eat for more than 24 hours is a matter of concern. A lot of cats will start their vaccines around 6 to 8 weeks old, and you can decide to either give your cat all the different types of shots he needs at once or stagger them out. More serious, but less common side effects, such as allergic reactions, may occur within minutes to hours after vaccination. Was her glucose normal? The cost of your cats vaccines will vary depending on where you get them done. Feline Distemper (Panleukopenia), Feline Herpesvirus (FHV-1), and Feline Calicivirus (FCV), These three vaccines are combined into one (FVCRP vaccine), Swelling around the location of the injection, Swelling around the face, eyes, mouth, and neck, Low blood pressure and decreased heart rate. In some cases, it also causes oral ulceration andpneumonia. 2023 SeniorCatWellness.com. Its rare, but it does happen. They protect against: The feline viral rhinotracheitis, calicivirus, and panleukopenia vaccinations often come in a combination shot (FVRCP), which is sometimes called the distemper shot.. Could it be infectious? In the early stages the affected cat may suffer from lethargy and pain in the affected area. Do they seem drowsy or out of it? Are they not interested in whats going on around them? Rabies is an important disease and although it is more common in dogs (and more commonly passed from dogs to humans than cats to humans) cats can be infected and can be a source of human infection. Vaccines are medication and like other medical treatments, have their own potential adverse effects. Vaccines are medication and like other medical treatments, have their own potential adverse effects. WebDecreased appetite and activity. They divide cat vaccines into two categories: Core vaccines are those recommended for all cats, no matter where they live or under what conditions. After vaccination, some cats will go back to their routines as if nothing happened to them. Cat Behavior After Vaccination A Complete Guide. However, as a charity, we need your support to enable us to keep delivering high quality and up to date information for everyone. Rare vaccine side effects In very rare circumstances, a vaccine can cause a severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis). The bacterium can also be an occasional cause of pneumonia in young kittens. (The exact requirements will depend on the vaccine, so always make sure to walk through your kittens vaccine schedule with your vet.). Poisoning or envenomationToxins and venomous stings or bites can cause pain, damage tissues, and disrupt normal physiologic functions. A loss of appetite is a common side effect of vaccinations. Lethargic and Not Eating / DrinkingLike lethargy, not eating or drinking well are nonspecific clinical signs that are seen with many cat diseases. WebYou may notice your cat has a temporary loss of appetite or is less lively a day or two after a vaccination, but this should resolve within 24-48 hours. After getting injected with a vaccine, you may also experience the same symptoms. However, these adverse effects should subside after 24 to 48 hours. Cats lack the fat reserves to sustain them. There are certain vaccines all cats need aka core vaccines. Another sign of FISS includes the lump exceeding 2cm in diameter, especially if it keeps growing. The vet will also think about how long vaccines are supposed to last and how likely your cat might be to come into contact with a certain disease. (The exact requirements will depend on the vaccine, so always make sure to walk through your kittens vaccine schedule with your vet.) Mild signs, such as tiredness, mild fever, and decreased appetite, may be present for a short time. Mild reactions can include a variety of symptoms such as mild fever, lethargy, poor appetite, sneezing or respiratory problems, slight discomfort at the injection site, slight swelling at the injection site, and vomiting. Affected cats can be treated successfully with appropriate antibiotics, but vaccination may be helpful in some circumstances as part of a control programme in an infected household, For further information onChlamydophila felis, seeChlamydophila felisinfection in cats. Talk to your vet to figure out which approach is best for your pet. Some cats may also have trouble walking and experience stomach upsets. Get the latest updates on your choice of veterinary topics delivered straight to your inbox. Any movement will be painful for the full duration of this side effect. However, as with any other product, no vaccine can ever be entirely without side effects so it is important to carefully choose which vaccines are necessary for any individual cat and to evaluate how frequently they should be given. The most commonly reported problem in cats is sleeping. This happens because the immune response generated by a vaccine can make cats feel tired, achy, and generally unwell. Mild reactions can include a variety of symptoms such as mild fever, lethargy, poor appetite, sneezing or respiratory problems, slight discomfort at the injection site, slight swelling at the injection site, and vomiting. And if youre about to adopt a cat, some rescues and shelters will include the costs of the vaccines he already got in your cats adoption fees. Many illnesses will also make a cat lethargic, so its quite likely that a sick or recently vaccinated cat will be lethargic. Floating Ribs In Dogs Dog Rib Cage Protruding On One Side? Youll need to make an informed decision about whether to vaccinate your cat based on the available medical evidence. After an incubation stage, clinical signs of aggression, disorientation, and death rapidly progress. The effects are similar to human babies who become lethargic, cranky and even get fever after getting their shots. Here at MyCuteAnimals.com we cover everything from training, care, health, nutrition, breeds, products, and much more. Cats heading into stressful situations, such as boarding, may benefit from a core vaccine booster 7-10 days before. Some data suggest that adult animals may maintain immunity for 5-7 years after their initial vaccinations as young animals, suggesting that the annual revaccination veterinarians had recommended for years is not necessary. The FeLV vaccine is tricky because it is required for kittens but optional for cats that are at least a year old. Cat Enema Side Effects What To Expect After Cat Enema? Let us try to understand whether it is normal for your cat to act strangely after getting a shot. Because of this, after your cat receives any vaccine, it is sensible to monitor the injection site regularly and if a swelling at the site persists for several weeks and/or continues to enlarge, get it checked immediately by your vet. But for cats who are older than 1 year and are at low risk of exposure, the FeLV vaccine is considered a non-core vaccine. Shots protect your cat from diseases caused by viruses and bacteria. Adverse effects from vaccines are very rare, especially in view of the millions of doses that are administered every year. American Association of Feline Practitioners. One type of cancer in cats, for example, is known to be caused by vaccinations. How To Euthanize A Cat With Over The Counter Drugs? Although the experience is never pleasant, felines must be vaccinated against rabies by law. And a visit to the vet can be doubly scary for a feline if injections are added to the equation. WebBordetella: Cats who go to the groomer or stay at a kennel may get vaccinated for this infection that spreads quickly in spaces where there are lots of animals. Cat vaccines protect pets against fatal and infectious feline diseases, keeping them healthy and living longer. Watch out for symptoms like diarrhea, collapse, and breathing difficulties. So The Dodos compiled everything you need to know about cat vaccinations. Feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV)vaccination is available in some, but not all counties. Check the requirements in your state using this table compiled by the American Veterinary Medical Association. A number of FeLV vaccines are also available and are effective in protecting cats. Put simply, lethargy is a cat slowing down when they dont feel good. She stayed there and then was released. While most cats behave normally after vaccination, it is common Also, many local and state governments have laws about vaccines like rabies. As the cat receives its shot, its body starts adapting to the vaccine, causing some changes in the body and function. For example, fleas may remove so much blood from cats that they become anemic. Vaccines are medication and like other medical treatments, have their own potential adverse effects. WebMD does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Such reactions can occur almost every time the cat gets a shot. If your elderly cat has a chronic illness, then you should avoid vaccination. Some vaccines are recommended for all cats. Sometimes, a cat can become aggressive to their humans and other pets in the household after vaccination or even after a visit to the vet for other purposes. The effectiveness of these vaccines should be evaluated carefully, and none of these should be regarded as core (or essential) vaccines. WebAfter a vaccine, around one-in-ten cats experience a soft swelling at the injection site. WebMany pet owners and some animal scientists believe that we are over vaccinating our pets. A cat can have an allergic reaction to a vaccination. Nutritional disordersCats cant be energetic and engaged without good nutrition. You can seek guidance and advice from your vet regarding such behavioral transformation. Lethargy can be defined as an abnormal decrease in a cats activity level and alertness. They also think that some shots may be doing more harm than good. There are so many possibilities of what it could be. (The exact requirements will depend on the vaccine, so always make sure to walk through your kittens vaccine schedule with your vet.) However, vaccination is essential for his health and your familys safety. Because of this, after your cat receives any vaccine, it is sensible to monitor the injection site regularly and if a swelling at the site persists for several weeks and/or continues to enlarge, get it checked immediately by your vet. We use cookies to improve our website to make sure you have a better browsing experience. Feline calicivirusencompasses a number of viral strains that cause signs of upper respiratory infection, such as sneezing and nasal discharge as well as oral ulcerations. WebMany pet owners and some animal scientists believe that we are over vaccinating our pets. This is because the immune system has started reacting to the vaccine. One type of cancer in cats, for example, is known to be caused by vaccinations. It is possible that it has little energy to walk to the bowl after vaccination. It is possible to perform blood tests to identify cats that are infected with this virus, and isolating such cats and preventing them from coming into contact with others is one way of preventing infection. Ondansetron For Cats (Zofran) All You Need To Know, Mini Hippo Dog - Everything You Need To Know. The first one is called the prodromal stage. Vaccines forfeline herpes virus(FHV-1) andfeline calicivirus(FCV) are always combined, as these two viruses together are the main causes of upper respiratory tract infections in cats (cat flu). Some data suggest that adult animals may maintain immunity for 5-7 years after their initial vaccinations as young animals, suggesting that the annual revaccination veterinarians had recommended for years is not necessary. I'm a proud owner of 5 adult cats (all adopted strays), including a senior cat who is now 20. Less common side effects include: Twitching Itchy skin Vomiting Diarrhoea Limping. Respiratory illnesses, which certain vaccinations protect against, can be lethal for senior cats. All our advice is freely accessible to everyone, wherever you are in the world. A small, firm swelling under the skin may develop at the site of a recent vaccination. Among the behavioral changes that you can see in your cat are lethargy, aggression, and fear. A feline that has been vaccinated will want to be on its own to get some sleep for several hours. Click Yes to help us continue to make these improvements. On the other, theyll be more affected by any of the side effects. If you see your cat shivering after vaccination, it can be from the pain or swelling at the injection site. While the rabies vaccine is not listed as a core vaccine by the AAFP guidelines, it is required by law in most regions. Your cat may also need to undergo radiotherapy or chemotherapy. In comparison, healthy kittens are never lethargic. He gave her a shot of cortizone. Cats that struggle with this side effect bounce back as quickly as they experienced the issue. The vaccine wont prevent the disease, but it will keep your kitty from getting very sick from it. **Click here to see the full list of Ask Dr. Debra Questions and Answers! They are very dangerous to young cats, and the vaccines are considered to provide a good deal of protection with minimal risk. It may also run a high fever. Please consider making a contribution, big or small, to keep our content free, accurate and relevant. So there you have it everything you need to know about cat vaccinations to keep your pet safe from super preventable diseases. Treatment for lethargy in cats is directed at finding and resolving the underlying cause. Indoor cats may also pick up bacteria and viruses when they stay at a kennel and if you bring a new cat home. The first one is called the prodromal stage. Dehydration and electrolyte abnormalitiesWater and appropriate electrolyte levels are essential for a cats body to produce energy and function normally. He told me to bring her in and he would get to her when he could. Lethargy After vaccination, it is normal for your pet to exhibit a few symptoms like fever, lameness, swelling, and 2. Its easier to stretch the skin and administer a shot. He gave her a shot of cortizone. The rabies virus targets your cats central nervous system, causing aggression, paralysis and coma. She started to get more aggressive. Documented reactions in these cases include behavioral aggression and separation anxiety; destruction and shredding of clothing and bedding; obsessive behavior such as barking, fearfulness, self-mutilation, tail chewing; pica (eating wood, stones, earth, and feces); seizures and epilepsy; fibrosarcomas at the injection site; and autoimmune In the vast majority of cases, your cat will feel fine and you wont notice any change in their behavior. The other three core vaccines are combined into a single three-in-one vaccine called the FVRCP vaccine. Cat Diseases: What Is Bobcat Fever and Why Is It Deadly to Cats? As cats age, they often spend more time quietly observing the world around them (or napping), but this isnt lethargy; its growing up. I truly love this kitty and want to give her all the time and love that I can. All rights reserved. Featured image: iStock.com/GoodLifeStudio. While the rabies vaccine is not listed as a core vaccine by the AAFP guidelines, it is required by law in most regions. Attend topical CE meetings on subjects including animal welfare, wellbeing, economics, and public policy. The factors that your veterinarian will consider to determine yourcats vaccination scheduleinclude: Discuss your cats lifestyle and risk factors with your veterinarian to determine an optimal, individualized vaccination protocol. 2005 - 2023 WebMD LLC. Mild signs, such as tiredness, mild fever, and decreased appetite, may be present for a short time. In many cases, lethargy is the bodys way of conserving energy to fight off illness or heal from injury. Whether you have a kitten or an adult cat, it should go without saying that vaccines are essential for your pets health and your safety. Limping This reaction mainly affects young kittens, usually at their first vaccination. Designate this as his recovery area where he can rest without being disturbed by the other members of the household. There is always risk involved in vaccinating a cat. Theres no better place to network, learn, and meet up with the friends and colleagues who make veterinary medicine so rewarding. WebBordetella: Cats who go to the groomer or stay at a kennel may get vaccinated for this infection that spreads quickly in spaces where there are lots of animals. Vaccines are necessary for most cats, especially those that spend most of their time outdoors. A lethargic cat can look a lot like a tired cat, but there is an important difference. This happens because the immune response generated by a vaccine can make cats feel tired, achy, and generally unwell. Rare vaccine side effects In very rare circumstances, a vaccine can cause a severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis). Its easy to be overwhelmed when you hear conflicting information about whether your cat needs them and the adverse effects they may have. It only means that your cat is experiencing these symptoms due to the interaction between his body and the vaccine. An allergic reaction is more concerning than a typical reaction to a vaccine. If they are outdoor or indoor/outdoor, or they are young cats or seniors, your vet may recommend yearly FVRCP shots. However, be aware that your cats appetite may not be normal during this period. These effects should subside in a few hours or days. Cat Behavior After Vaccination A Complete Guide. Then they must be boostered a year later.. WebAffected cats may have sneezing, eye and nasal discharge, conjunctivitis, lethargy, loss of appetite, sores on the gums and soft tissues of the oral cavity, and lameness. Many pet owners report their cats not eating after getting their vaccines. What Is FIV and Why Is the FIV Vaccine No Longer Available? Diarrhea is also a possibility for the same reasons. Read the latest news about the AVMA and the veterinary profession, and search archives dating back to 2000. Many illnesses will also make a cat lethargic, so its quite likely that a sick or recently vaccinated cat will be lethargic. A vet will offeressential vaccinations for your cat. You have to understand that cats that share a home pass each others scent to one another. If the sarcoma that is caused by vaccination is not treated, it will continue to grow. He told us she had a screw loose and that she had a shot knot. Anyone who cares for his or her cat will want to protect it in this way and vaccination is a critical part of a proper preventive healthcare programme. They could even react to the rubber gloves that your vet wears to administer the vaccine. While most cats behave normally after vaccination, it is common Most cats will need booster shots every one to three years, but always double-check with your vet to make sure because thats something youll want to stay on top of. Kittens should start getting vaccinations when they are 6 to 8 weeks old until they are about 16 weeks old. As a cat receives a shot, its immune system responds to the antibodies, causing it to look sick and uneasy. These are perfectly normal although it can be disconcerting to see your happy cat lack his usual vigor. Fearful cats will often display anxiety or even aggression even before the trip to the vet. Any vomiting should be monitored after vaccinations. Limping This reaction mainly affects young kittens, usually at their first vaccination. The Veterinary Leadership Conference draws veterinarians from across the U.S. for education sessions that help develop leaders for the veterinary profession. All vaccines have the potential to cause side effects in cats. I just dont think putting her down without knowing exactly what she has is a reasonable option, but it seems to be the in thing to do these days.