In some cases, affected kittens may develop pneumonia. Could it be infectious? Understand that your cat is still in recovery and that he may not be his usual self. Cats can have vaccine reactions but they are relatively uncommon and do not present like this. You can try comforting it with some food or drink to alleviate the pain or discomfort associated with vaccination. Lethargic and VomitingVomiting is seen with problems directly affecting the digestive tract (inflammatory bowel disease, for example) and metabolic diseases like diabetes or kidney failure. Therefore, veterinarians will often focus on any other symptoms a cat might have when they are trying to figure out what is wrong. Senior cats may slow down a bit more, but extreme or sudden changes are usually a sign of a health problem. Some cats may also have trouble walking and experience stomach upsets. All kittens should receive their core vaccinations and any others that are agreed between you and your vet. Some symptoms you can expect to see include sneezing, nasal congestion and discharge, andconjunctivitis. The same thing can happen to people. Many pet owners report their cats not eating after getting their vaccines. Ultimately, cat owners should work with their veterinarians to limit the stress associated with visiting a clinic. WebAfter a vaccine, around one-in-ten cats experience a soft swelling at the injection site. Cat booster shots Lethargic and WobblyCats who are wobbly could be suffering from a neurologic problem or metabolic disease, or they could simply be very weak. Theres no better place to network, learn, and meet up with the friends and colleagues who make veterinary medicine so rewarding. Sneezing, mild coughing, "snotty nose" or other respiratory signs may occur 2-5 days after your pet receives an intranasal vaccine. If they have not done some basic tests, Id recommend letting them do that. For these reasons, where rabies is present in a country or in a region, it is recommended that all cats should be vaccinated against this disease. On average, your cats core vaccines alone (without the office visit charge) can cost $40 to $80 for the first years worth of shots. Provide for his needs and keep some distance. 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. However, vaccination is essential for his health and your familys safety. Liver and kidney diseaseWaste products build up when these organs fail, which disrupts normal chemical processes and makes cats feel terrible. 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. In the vast majority of cases, your cat will feel fine and you wont notice any change in their behavior. Some experts believe that the felines already have tumors. Save my name and email in this browser for the next time I comment. The right vaccinations. Attend topical CE meetings on subjects including animal welfare, wellbeing, economics, and public policy. He did not know what was wrong. Independence America Holdings Corp. All Rights Reserved. Vaccination is very effective in preventing disease. 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. Some of these problems, like cancer, are more common as pets get older, but lethargy can strike cats at any age. More marked side effects may include vomiting, diarrhoea, lameness, fever, signs of respiratory tract infection, or lumps at the site of injection. The first one is called the prodromal stage. To help your pet stay healthy, limit their contact with infected animals and to environments where diseases may be more common. 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. Rare vaccine side effects In very rare circumstances, a vaccine can cause a severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis). Many illnesses will also make a cat lethargic, so its quite likely that a sick or recently vaccinated cat will be lethargic. He gave her a shot of cortizone. She started to get more aggressive. A potential problem is that vaccinated cats will also test positive on the routine tests used to detect FIV-infected cats, but newer diagnostic assays are becoming available that may overcome this problem. Cat vaccines protect pets against fatal and infectious feline diseases, keeping them healthy and living longer. After getting injected with a vaccine, you may also experience the same symptoms. However, these shouldneverbe used they have no scientific basis and cannot provoke the specific immune response that is needed to provide protection. There is always risk involved in vaccinating a cat. 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. The initial vaccine course is often started at 8-9 weeks of age, with a second injection 3-4 weeks later. He gave her a shot of cortizone. Featured image: iStock.com/GoodLifeStudio. He told us she had a screw loose and that she had a shot knot. It is now common also to recommend a third vaccination (especially for FPV) at 16-20 weeks of age to ensure the kitten is properly protected. This is more likely for older cats with arthritis or joint pain. All rights reserved. They should be left alone to rest and you should see improvement in their condition in a few hours. Some cats may also have trouble walking and experience stomach upsets. A number of FeLV vaccines are also available and are effective in protecting cats. Feline leukemia: This serious viral infection spreads through many bodily fluids like saliva, feces, urine, and milk.The vaccine is recommended inkittens and then 12 months later. In this stage, a rabid cat will usually exhibit changes in behavior that aren't typical for their personality: A shy cat can become A cat that does not eat for more than 24 hours is a matter of concern. Although the experience is never pleasant, felines must be vaccinated against rabies by law. In this stage, a rabid cat will usually exhibit changes in behavior that aren't typical for their personality: A shy cat can become Watch out for symptoms like diarrhea, collapse, and breathing difficulties. Fearful cats will often display anxiety or even aggression even before the trip to the vet. Black Spots, Gunk & Blackheads On Dog Nipples: What Do They Mean?? While the disease usually starts with decreased energy and low appetite, it progresses to vomiting and diarrhea. On the other hand, you can give a cat that is only mildly lethargic and otherwise okay a little time to see if they return to normal on their own. Heres What It Means, Cat Behavior After Vaccination A Complete Guide. One type of cancer in cats, for example, is known to be caused by vaccinations. Here are the general cat vaccination guidelines to use as a starting point: Get practical pet health tips, articles, and insights from our veterinary community delivered weekly to your inbox. 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. Limping This reaction mainly affects young kittens, usually at their first vaccination. However, after that, the frequency of booster vaccinations may be only every 1-3 years depending on the vaccine, disease and risk of with the individual cat. As cats age, they often spend more time quietly observing the world around them (or napping), but this isnt lethargy; its growing up. 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. 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. WebDecreased appetite and activity. (The exact requirements will depend on the vaccine, so always make sure to walk through your kittens vaccine schedule with your vet.) However, these adverse effects should subside after 24 to 48 hours. These diseases are highly infectious and seen worldwide. Poisoning or envenomationToxins and venomous stings or bites can cause pain, damage tissues, and disrupt normal physiologic functions. Vaccines are medication and like other medical treatments, have their own potential adverse effects. The rabies vaccine is so important that its required by law, since the disease is fatal, highly contagious and transmissible to humans. Traumatic injuriesSignificant trauma leads to pain, and healing requires extra energy. You need to ensure that your cat is left alone. On the other, theyll be more affected by any of the side effects. Make a note of all the changes to your cats behavior. In the vast majority of cases, your cat will feel fine and you wont notice any change in their behavior. Then the next day I called him back because All vaccines have the potential to cause side effects in cats. And even the most docile kitties sometimes make a run for it. However, you do not have to worry much about your cat. Only use vaccines that are recommended by your vet. Technically, lethargy in cats is never normal, but it is sometimes expected. 1. So there you have it everything you need to know about cat vaccinations to keep your pet safe from super preventable diseases. FISS can cause a cancerous tumor at the site of the vaccination. He told us she had a screw loose and that she had a shot knot. The viruses are often transmitted by direct or close contact between cats (eg, in sneezed droplets), but they may also survive for short periods in the environment. There are so many possibilities of what it could be. A number of other vaccines may be available in certain countries but not others. Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information, Feline viral rhinotracheitis (aka feline herpes virus): a disease that affects your cats upper respiratory system and sometimes his eyes, Feline calicivirus: a disease that causes respiratory infections and oral diseases, Feline panleukopenia virus: a disease that dangerously lowers your cats white blood cell count. Heres What You Should Know! Seefeline herpes virusandfeline calicivirus. The availability of different vaccines will vary between different countries, because some diseases are not present everywhere, and because vaccines are not necessarily licensed (and therefore available) in every country. They provide cat owners, veterinary professionals and those who live and work with cats the resources, support, and advice they need to better care for cats. This happens because the immune response generated by a vaccine can make cats feel tired, achy, and generally unwell. WebCan your cats personality change after a vaccination? To read most recent questions Click here! I'm a proud owner of 5 adult cats (all adopted strays), including a senior cat who is now 20. In addition, vaccines can cause allergic reactions. The journal Acta Veterinaria Scandinavica has stated that instances remain as low as 1 in 10,000. Not all cats experience these problems after vaccination. There is always risk involved in vaccinating a cat. Most cats want to sleep for a few hours after getting their shot. Limping This reaction mainly affects young kittens, usually at their first vaccination. Most vets will highly recommend the FVRCP and rabies vaccines. WebThere are usually three distinctive stages with rabies in cats. Fever, lethargy, reduced appetite, and swelling are all common. They are very dangerous to young cats, and the vaccines are considered to provide a good deal of protection with minimal risk. Gastrointestinal problemsDiseases leading to poor digestion or nutrient absorption can reduce a cats energy levels. But theycould still catch airborne germs that might come in through a window or door. After your cat gets his first shot, hell need a few more doses usually two to four weeks apart until hes 16 to 20 weeks old. Its easier to stretch the skin and administer a shot. Bordetella: 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. Cats can react badly to vaccines, which is an unavoidable side effect of the process. Hormonal abnormalities (e.g., diabetes)Abnormal hormone levels change physiologic processes throughout the body, which can make cats feel sick. Lethargy After vaccination, it is normal for your pet to exhibit a few symptoms like fever, lameness, swelling, and 2. She started to get more aggressive. We also discuss common cat vaccination concerns to help pet owners determine what they should expect. Rabies is a zoonotic disease (it can be transmitted from animals to humans), so it is a public safety issue to keep your cat up to date on their rabies vaccine. It is a preparation designed to provide protection against a specific infectious disease through stimulating an immune response that will protect the cat if it is subsequently exposed to the infection. Some common side effects of feline vaccinations include: These side effects should be short-lived. iCatCare may receive a commission or share in the net profit of some purchases made through the affiliate links. This is because the vaccine causes a chemical reaction in a cats brain. In many cases, lethargy is the bodys way of conserving energy to fight off illness or heal from injury. Lethargy After vaccination, it is normal for your pet to exhibit a few symptoms like fever, lameness, swelling, and 2. Your cats lifestyle and geographic location will help you and your vet determine whether or not he needs a non-core vaccine. What Is FIV and Why Is the FIV Vaccine No Longer Available? Id encourage her to eat hand feed her, give her some smelling food, whatever it takes to get her to eat. FVCRP, FIP, and Bordetella can be inhaled nasally but may not be as effective as injections. 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. 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. Lethargic and Not Eating / DrinkingLike lethargy, not eating or drinking well are nonspecific clinical signs that are seen with many cat diseases. As the cat receives its shot, its body starts adapting to the vaccine, causing some changes in the body and function. FeLV is found worldwide. Rabies is endemic worldwide, and the vaccine is recommended for all pet cats. Some cats even exhibit lingering fear and anxiety days after coming from the vet. Dr. Debra, Recently, my kitten (2 months old) had her first installment of vaccinations. He told us she had a screw loose and that she had a shot knot. A cats immune system starts to adapt following a vaccine, which means that a cat may feel sick. If your cat refuses to eat after getting a shot, you should not worry about it. 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? A trip to the vet for vaccination is never a pleasant experience for your cat. Kittens may also acquire infections from the queen before birth. Treatment for lethargy in cats is directed at finding and resolving the underlying cause. Some people are tempted to use homoeopathic vaccines or may have these recommended by a friend. In some cases, affected kittens may develop pneumonia. This will naturally make them more lethargic. A loss of appetite is a common side effect of vaccinations. When a cat is bitten by another cat, an infection is likely to develop. 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. 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. Outbreaks of infection with this virus are common and a high proportion of affected cats can die. Its easy to be overwhelmed when you hear conflicting information about whether your cat needs them and the adverse effects they may have. WebLow energy (lethargy) Eating less Sleeping more Fever (high temperature) Mild swelling around the vaccine site that disappears in two - six weeks. These reactions can be life-threatening and are medical emergencies. They also think that some shots may be doing more harm than good. Start your day with heartwarming and hilarious animal stories that will make you fall in love. This is because the immune system has started reacting to the vaccine. This, in turn, will allow cancerous cells to spread. We took her to our vet. More serious, but less common side effects, such as allergic reactions, may occur within minutes to hours after vaccination. Rare vaccine side effects In very rare circumstances, a vaccine can cause a severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis). Make sure that food and water are readily available to him. A vaccination against rabies would usually happen in the right back leg, while a vaccination for FVCRP would happen in the right front leg. There are some clinics that will vaccinate your cat for free. Seek veterinary care immediately if any of these signs develop: 2023 American Veterinary Medical Association All rights reserved, Donate to American Veterinary Medical Foundation (AVMF), AVMA Congressional Advocacy Network (CAN), Tools to help you transition to your new veterinary career, Answers to the questions you're facing as you start out in your professional life, Early-career resources to continue your professional and personal growth, AVMA Center for Veterinary Education Accreditation, Professional policy guidance, open for member input, Creating socially conscious work environments, Self-care and workplace wellbeing for the whole veterinary team, Profitability and finance, marketing, leadership, and team building, Loans, budgets, financial planning, and more, Interprofessional collaboration across animal, human, and environmental health, Disease and pain management, behavior, disaster preparedness, humane endings, and more, Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association (JAVMA), American Journal of Veterinary Research (AJVR). After coming home, your cats may seem like total strangers. Many factors affect the likelihood of a cat developing an infectious disease. A vet must assess a cat with a lump that persists for weeks after vaccination. A cats body will go through an adjustment after a vaccine is administered. He also might. Your vet always tells you how important it is to get your cat vaccinated, but you might still be wondering if its worth it. After your cat gets his first shot, hell need a few more doses usually two to four weeks apart until hes 16 to 20 weeks old. Its rare, but it does happen. WebAfter a vaccine, around one-in-ten cats experience a soft swelling at the injection site. 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. During times of stress, the virus can reactivate, and the cat can start to show signs of infection againeven if they have not been re-exposed to the disease. Lethargy is a very nonspecific clinical signits seen with almost every health problem a cat could develop. Sneezing, mild coughing, "snotty nose" or other respiratory signs may occur 2-5 days after your pet receives an intranasal vaccine. Can you give me any feedback on your impressions and how I need to proceed with continued love and care for my little one? Stay current on important veterinary news, AVMA activities, and member services. This should go away on its own in 2-3 days as the symptoms ease. Feline vaccinations are commonly administered by injection, typically behind the legs. Some cats may also have trouble walking and experience stomach upsets. JUMP TO: Core vaccines | Non-core vaccines | Vaccine costs | Vaccine schedule | Booster shots. TheFeline Vaccination Advisory Panelregularly evaluates and researches cat vaccination developments to make science-based recommendations. 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. However, these adverse effects should subside after 24 to 48 hours. Cat vaccination recommendations are among the most contentious debates in veterinary medicine. The core vaccines are considered essential for all cats (including indoor-only cats) because of the widespread and/or severe nature of the diseases being protected against. As a pet owner, one of your first responsibilities is to get your four-legged friend vaccinated on schedule. I have noticed she is not seeing very well but can hear us call her and will follow our calls. Any vomiting should be monitored after vaccinations. In more severe cases, your cat may require intravenous fluids and further observation. Shots protect your cat from diseases caused by viruses and bacteria. Less common side effects include: Twitching Itchy skin Vomiting Diarrhoea Limping. Lethargic cats often do sleep more than normal, but their lethargy remains unless the underlying problem is addressed. So The Dodos compiled everything you need to know about cat vaccinations. Talk to your veterinarian if your cats lethargy does not improve. Youll need to make an informed decision about whether to vaccinate your cat based on the available medical evidence. It is not entirely clear why cats experience FISS. WebThe vaccine protocols that are being questioned are those for the core vaccines administered to adult dogs and cats. One type of cancer in cats, for example, is known to be caused by vaccinations. A small, firm swelling under the skin may develop at the site of a recent vaccination. He told us she had a screw loose and that she had a shot knot. However, it is a good idea to monitor your cat from time to time to ensure that he does not have an adverse reaction to the vaccine. Nutritional disordersCats cant be energetic and engaged without good nutrition. Many illnesses will also make a cat lethargic, so its quite likely that a sick or recently vaccinated cat will be lethargic. 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. 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. Cat booster shots This is a cancerous tumor that develops following inflammation around the site of the injection. These are perfectly normal although it can be disconcerting to see your happy cat lack his usual vigor. Cats can be allergic to anything. 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. It is now well recognised that this is a very rare occurrence (probably less than 1 in 20,000 vaccines administered) and it seems that both vaccines and other injectable products can carry a small risk of inducing this in cats. What You Need to Know About Rabies Vaccines for Cats. If you see your cat shivering after vaccination, it can be from the pain or swelling at the injection site. WebAfter a vaccine, around one-in-ten cats experience a soft swelling at the injection site. Indoor cats may also pick up bacteria and viruses when they stay at a kennel and if you bring a new cat home. Also, she wants to clean herself and tries to play like she used to. Dr. Debra, Recently, my kitten (2 months old) had her first installment of vaccinations. (The exact requirements will depend on the vaccine, so always make sure to walk through your kittens vaccine schedule with your vet.). If your cat seems to have undergone a complete personality transformation, seek further guidance from a vet. The American Association of Feline Practitioners also considers the FVCRP to be a core vaccine. While the rabies vaccine is not listed as a core vaccine by the AAFP guidelines, it is required by law in most regions. If in doubt, wait for 30-60 minutes following vaccination before taking your pet home. Did they do routine blood work including a complete blood count, diagnostic profile, feline leukemia and feline aids tests? WebHow will your cat feel after receiving a vaccine? She started to get more aggressive. Cats that stay at a boarding cattery will generally require an annual vaccination (or booster vaccine before the cat goes into the cattery) as this is a higher risk situation. WebThe vaccine protocols that are being questioned are those for the core vaccines administered to adult dogs and cats. Mild signs, such as tiredness, mild fever, and decreased appetite, may be present for a short time. Rabies is endemic worldwide, and the vaccine is recommended for all pet cats. Flat Feet In Dogs UPDATED 2022 A Complete Guide. This can manifest in the form of aggression or clinginess. WebSome cats will develop a mild reaction that may last for a few days to a week after the vaccination. Rare vaccine side effects In very rare circumstances, a vaccine can cause a severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis). Get best-in-class CE in some of your favorite cities. Dr. Debra, Recently, my kitten (2 months old) had her first installment of vaccinations. 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. This can even happen to cats that have bonded quite well. However, your pet may want to be alone during this period. Affected cats typically show sneezing, nasal discharge, conjunctivitis, eye discharge, and mouth ulcers. 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. After vaccination, it is normal for your pet to exhibit a few symptoms like fever, lameness, swelling, and redness in the injection site, appetite loss, and even lethargy and general malaise. WebDecreased appetite and activity. WebSome cats will develop a mild reaction that may last for a few days to a week after the vaccination. Even if you reside in a state that doesnt mandate rabies shots by law, it remains advisable. FeLVis an important disease that can be spread through fighting, through mutual grooming, and through sharing of food/water bowls and litter trays. It should start to disappear within a couple weeks. 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. The virus also kills off white blood cells, leaving the young cats even more susceptible to secondary infections. Non-core vaccines arent necessary for all cats. The most alarming reaction to vaccination is Feline Injection Site Sarcoma (FISS). Cornell Feline Health Center: Feline Vaccines: Benefits and Risks., American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals: Vaccinations for Your Pet., American Humane: Vaccinating Your Pet..

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