Mount Carmel Animal Hospital informs readers regarding the feline distemper vaccine (FVRCP) and why your cat needs it.
One of the simplest things you can do as a pet owner is to promote life-long wellness in your feline friend by staying current on their routine vaccinations. In honor of Immunization Awareness Month, Mount Carmel Animal Hospital informs readers regarding the feline distemper vaccine (FVRCP) and why your cat needs it.
What Does the Vaccine Include?
Even though you might believe that your indoor cat is safe from infectious diseases like those listed below, the viruses that cause these feline conditions can live up to a year on surfaces. That signifies that your indoor cat is at risk of contracting numerous viruses if he or she sneaks out the door even for a minute. Your feline is also at increased risk if they spend any time in a grooming salon or boarding facility with other cats. The feline distemper vaccine is highly effective at protecting your kitty against three contagious feline diseases:
Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis (FHV-1)
The FVR virus is believed to be accountable for almost all infectious upper respiratory diseases in our feline friends. This disease may impact your cat’s nose and windpipe and cause problems during pregnancy. In addition, kittens and senior cats with symptoms of FHV-1 might persist and worsen, leading to appetite loss, depression, severe weight loss, and sores inside your cat’s mouth.
Feline Calicivirus (C)
Calicivirus is a significant cause of cats’ oral diseases and upper respiratory infections. Symptoms of FCV include sneezing, nasal congestion, eye inflammation, and yellow or clear discharge from the infected cat’s nose or eyes. Some felines will also develop painful ulcers on their palate, tongue, lips, or nose because of FCV. It’s critical to note that there are numerous strains of FCV; some create fluid buildup in the lungs, while others result in symptoms like joint pain, fever, and lameness.
Feline Panleukopenia (FPL)
FPL is a common and severe virus in felines that can damage the bone marrow, the cells lining your cat’s intestines, and lymph nodes. Symptoms of FPL include appetite loss, depression, lethargy, high fever, vomiting, nasal discharge, severe diarrhea, and dehydration. Cats infected with panleukopenia often develop secondary infections due to their weakened immune systems. This disease is highly contagious and potentially fatal.
Why All Cats Should be Vaccinated?
The side effects from vaccines, especially the feline distemper vaccine, are unusual in cats. They tend to be mild when they do occur. Most cats that react to the FVRCP vaccine will get a slight fever and feel “off” for a day or two. It’s not unusual for a minor amount of swelling at the injection site. Panleukopenia is fatal in at least 50% of cases and those that survive are often left with long term complications. The other diseases this vaccine protects against also have lifelong health impacts on your cat. This safe and effective vaccine is much better than risking your cat getting ill.
HERE AT MOUNT CARMEL ANIMAL HOSPITAL, WE’LL TREAT YOUR PETS LIKE FAMILY!
Mount Carmel Animal Hospital has been serving the Northern Baltimore/Southern York community for over 30 years and is proud to be an independently operated, small animal practice committed to excellence in veterinary medicine and client service. From grooming to wellness services, along with Canine Life Skills Training Courses, and surgical procedures, we have the expertise that will best serve the needs of you and your pet. Contact us at 410-343-0200 and follow us on Facebook