When to start vaccination for cats

Cats should be vaccinated after two months (>8 weeks), as cats will lose the antibodies they inherit from their mothers within 50 days after birth. The antibodies protect them against viruses for 50 days, after which they decline. Vaccination is only effective after this period. It is essential to vaccinate cats when they are completely healthy, so it is recommended to wait for two weeks after the cat has adapted to its new environment before administering the vaccine.

1. Types of vaccines required for cats:

Common cat vaccines on the market include: Feline Distemper Vaccine, Feline Leukemia Vaccine, and Combined Vaccines (such as the three-in-one vaccine that prevents feline herpesvirus, calicivirus, and panleukopenia virus). The three-in-one vaccine is the most widely used because it covers the most frequently occurring diseases, making it a must-have vaccine. Most pet hospitals in China use the imported Merial trademarks vaccine.

1. Vaccination schedule:

For young cats, they need to be vaccinated twice in their first year (with the same vaccine, twice) to strengthen their immunity. Therefore, the usual immunization program is three shots in the first year (two doses of Feline X-联, one dose of Rabies Vaccine), then once a year thereafter, with one shot each time. The first vaccination for kittens is usually around 2 months after birth, and the Rabies Vaccine is given when they are 3 months old. Vaccinations are administered every 21-30 days thereafter. Half a month after all vaccinations are completed, an antibody test can be performed to check if the antibodies are adequate. If the antibody level is not satisfactory, a booster dose is required. Once a cat has completed the three-dose vaccination schedule, annual boosters are not necessary unless the antibody level is checked and found to be inadequate.

1. Precautions when vaccinating cats:

Even if cats do not go outside, they still need to be vaccinated. First, cats may need to visit the vet or go to a grooming salon, and exposure to the outside world could lead to infections. Some cats even interact with stray cats through window screens, which also poses an infection risk. Second, owners' clothes, hands, and shoes may carry pathogens, so vaccines are necessary. It's crucial to be vigilant to ensure your cat's health. After being vaccinated, some cats may experience reduced appetite and lethargy for 2-3 days, and even have slightly elevated temperatures. These are minor allergic reactions, and owners should not be concerned. However, if the symptoms persist for more than five days, it's essential to consult a doctor and report the situation promptly.