Indoor Cats' Essential Vaccinations: What Shots Do They Need?

Cats, just like any other pet, require regular care and attention to ensure they stay healthy and happy. Vaccinations are an important part of this care, protecting cats from a range of serious and potentially fatal diseases. While it may be tempting to skip vaccinations, especially for indoor cats, it is important to understand which shots your cat really needs to stay healthy. In this article, we will explore the different types of vaccinations available for indoor cats, the recommended vaccination schedule, and the potential side effects to look out for. We will also discuss the reasons why vaccinating your indoor cat is important, even if they primarily stay indoors. By the end of this article, you should have a better understanding of the essential shots your indoor cat needs to stay healthy and happy.

Core vaccines

Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis, Calicivirus, and Panleukopenia (FVRCP)

The FVRCP vaccine is often referred to as the "distemper" shot. It is a combination vaccine that protects cats against three diseases: feline viral rhinotracheitis, calicivirus, and panleukopenia. Feline viral rhinotracheitis is an upper respiratory tract illness that can lead to pneumonia. Calicivirus, or FCV, is another upper respiratory illness that can cause chronic stomatitis, pneumonia, and, if left untreated, can infect internal organs and be fatal. Panleukopenia, also known as feline parvovirus, is highly infectious and often fatal in kittens, causing vomiting, diarrhoea, and a decrease in white blood cells, leaving kittens susceptible to secondary infections. The FVRCP vaccine is typically given to kittens starting at 6 to 8 weeks of age and then every four weeks until they are 16 to 20 weeks old. After the initial series of vaccinations, cats should receive a booster at the one-year mark, followed by boosters every three years.

Feline Herpesvirus Type I (FHV, FHV-1)

Feline herpesvirus type I is a highly contagious virus that is a leading cause of upper respiratory infections in cats. It can be spread through shared food bowls and litter boxes, direct contact, or inhalation of sneeze droplets. FHV-1 can infect cats for life, and some cats will continue to shed the virus, leading to potential eye problems. The vaccine for FHV-1 is typically given as part of the FVRCP vaccine, following the same schedule.

Rabies

Rabies is a fatal disease that affects many mammals, including humans, and is transmissible to humans. While cats are not natural carriers of rabies, they can become infected through a bite from any infected mammal and then transmit the disease to others. Rabies is endemic worldwide, and the vaccine is required by law in most regions and states for cats over 6 months old. The rabies vaccine is typically given to cats between 14 and 16 weeks of age, followed by a one-year booster. After that, the vaccine is given every three years.

Feline Leukemia (FeLV)

The FeLV vaccine protects cats from the feline leukemia virus, which is found worldwide and transmitted through bodily fluids such as saliva, urine, and feces. FeLV is spread through close contact between infected and uninfected cats, such as mutual grooming or sharing food and water bowls. While some infected cats may appear healthy, others may develop conditions such as lymphoma, anemia, or immunosuppression. The FeLV vaccine is considered a core vaccine for kittens and is given in two doses spaced three to four weeks apart, followed by a revaccination one year later. For adult cats, the need for subsequent vaccinations is determined by individual risk factors, such as whether the cat goes outdoors or comes into contact with infected cats.

Rabies vaccine

Rabies is a viral disease that can infect all warm-blooded animals, including cats and humans. It is transmitted through the saliva of an infected animal, typically through bites, but also via scratches, abrasions, or open wounds. The virus does not survive long outside a mammal's body. The incubation period can vary from ten days to one year or longer, with death occurring within ten days from the first onset of signs.

Rabies is a severe and often fatal disease for unvaccinated pets. It is impossible to diagnose rabies in living animals, and euthanasia is required by law in many states for unvaccinated animals exposed to potentially rabid animals. This is because the tests for diagnosing rabies require brain tissue samples, which can only be obtained during a postmortem procedure.

To prevent rabies, vaccination is essential. Most states and local governments in the United States require the vaccination of cats by law, and it is recommended that all cats, including indoor cats, receive the rabies vaccine. This is because indoor cats can escape outdoors or come into contact with wildlife that has found its way into the home, such as bats and raccoons.

The rabies vaccine for cats is typically given to kittens at three to four months of age, with a one-year booster, and then repeated every three years. There are different types of vaccines available, including adjuvanted and non-adjuvanted vaccines. Adjuvants are substances that boost the immune response to the vaccine but have been linked to rare cases of cancer at the site of injection in cats. Non-adjuvanted vaccines are generally preferred but are more expensive.

Side effects of the rabies vaccine in cats are very rare but can include slight fever, lethargy, decreased appetite, and localized swelling at the vaccine site. In extremely rare cases, an allergic reaction may occur, with symptoms such as hives, swelling of the face, and itchiness.

Feline rhinotracheitis, calicivirus and panleukopenia (FVRCP)

Feline rhinotracheitis is a herpes virus that causes fever, sneezing, a runny nose and eyes. Kittens can be severely affected and develop oral and corneal ulcers. The virus can also cause conjunctivitis and, in severe cases, corneal ulcers and pneumonia. The herpes virus can lay dormant and flare up when a cat is stressed.

Calicivirus causes similar symptoms to rhinotracheitis, but they are much milder. It particularly affects the oral cavity, causing oral ulcers, and sometimes pneumonia. There is no specific treatment for calicivirus unless a secondary bacterial infection develops.

Panleukopenia is a very contagious and often fatal virus. It is related to the canine parvovirus and attacks the bone marrow and lymph nodes, leading to low white blood cell counts and an inability to fight infections. Infected cats will show symptoms such as lethargy, vomiting, diarrhoea and a high fever.

The FVRCP vaccine is typically given to kittens from the age of six to eight weeks, with boosters every three to four weeks until they are 16 to 20 weeks old. After the final shot, cats should receive a booster at the one-year mark, and then every three years.

Feline herpesvirus type I (FHV, FHV-1)

Feline herpesvirus type I (FHV-1) is a highly contagious virus that can infect cats for life. It is one of the core vaccinations that vets recommend for all cats, as it is essential for protecting them from serious and common feline conditions. FHV-1 is a leading cause of upper respiratory infections and can be spread through the sharing of litter trays or food bowls, inhalation of sneeze droplets, or direct contact. The virus can also be transmitted indirectly through contaminated clothing, footwear, or via household members or guests.

FHV-1 causes feline viral rhinotracheitis, an important viral disease of cats worldwide. It is associated with both upper respiratory and ocular signs, including conjunctivitis, corneal ulcers, and chronic 'dry eye'. The acute phase of the disease is followed by lifelong latency, primarily in sensory neuronal cells. Reactivation of the latent virus can be triggered by natural stressors or the administration of corticosteroids, leading to renewed viral replication and transmission.

The incubation period for FHV-1 is typically two to five days, and the active infection can last about 10-20 days. However, all infected cats become carriers of the virus, and stress or illness can cause reactivation. Recurrent infections may be milder, but affected cats can still transmit the virus to others.

The standard core vaccines for cats include a vaccine against FHV-1, which helps to reduce the severity and shorten the length of the illness. The vaccine does not completely prevent infection, and solid immunity is not long-term, so booster shots are required on a regular basis.

Treatment for FHV-1 is typically symptomatic and depends on the specific clinical signs and problems exhibited by the cat. Topical eye medications and oral antiviral medications, such as famciclovir, may be used to treat eye infections and reduce clinical signs. Antibiotics may also be prescribed to control secondary bacterial infections. Supportive care is crucial, especially for severe cases, and may include fluids for hydration, routine cleaning of the nostrils and eyes, and immune supplements such as lysine.

Booster shots

The core vaccines for cats include FVRCP (feline viral rhinotracheitis, calicivirus, and panleukopenia) and rabies. FVRCP is typically given as a combination vaccine to protect against three diseases. The rabies vaccine is required by law in most states and regions. Both core vaccines are recommended for all cats, regardless of their lifestyle.

For adult cats, the FVRCP vaccine can be administered every three years if the cat stays indoors. However, if your cat goes outdoors, is young, or is a senior, your vet may recommend annual FVRCP vaccines. Rabies vaccinations are typically given annually or every three years, depending on state laws and the vaccine brand.

In addition to the core vaccines, there are non-core or lifestyle vaccines that may be recommended for your cat based on their lifestyle and risk factors. These include the FeLV (feline leukemia) vaccine, which is highly contagious and spread through close contact. The Advisory Panel of the American Academy of Feline Practitioners recommends that all cats under one year of age be vaccinated against FeLV and receive a booster one year later. After that, the need for subsequent vaccinations is determined by individual risk factors.

Other non-core vaccines include Bordetella and Chlamydophila felis, which are often recommended for cats that visit groomers or boarding facilities. These vaccines protect against highly contagious upper respiratory infections.

It is important to keep your cat up-to-date with their booster shots to ensure they remain protected against serious and potentially life-threatening diseases. Your vet will work with you to determine the best vaccination schedule for your cat based on their individual needs, lifestyle, and location.

Frequently asked questions