What are the rules for cat vaccines? What is the recommended schedule for cat vaccines? Do indoor cats still need vaccinations? Dr. Marty Greer, Revival’s Director of Veterinary Services, presents a comprehensive webinar on feline vaccination protocols. This session covers core and non-core vaccines, injectable vs intranasal, optimal scheduling, and the latest advancements in immunization research. Learn about vaccine safety, efficacy, and tailored strategies to protect the cats in your care.

Stay ahead with best practices for disease prevention, client education, and improved feline health outcomes. Whether you administer feline vaccinations or advise on protocols, this cat vaccine webinar is a must-watch!

Feline Vaccination Essentials: Dr. Greer’s Best Practices for Long-Term Cat Health

Vaccination is one of the most important medical advancements in protecting both people and pets. Despite vaccine hesitancy, it remains vital to maintain vaccinations for cats to prevent serious diseases.

Key Considerations for Feline Vaccination:

• Timing: Kittens should be vaccinated no earlier than six weeks old, with vaccines spaced at least 21 days apart. Avoid over-vaccinating to ensure safety.
• Injection Sites: Administer vaccines in the lower limbs— Dr. Greer recomends distemper on the right, rabies on the right, and leukemia on the left—for proper safety and effectiveness.
• Storage & Handling: Keep vaccines refrigerated (never frozen) and always check expiration dates to ensure vaccine efficacy.
• Record-Keeping: Track vaccine details, including type, location, and lot number, for future reference and consistency. The Revival Health Records for Cats are handy for recording immunizations, fecal exams, deworming and medical appointments.
• Veterinary Oversight: While breeders can administer vaccines, veterinary verification ensures vaccines are properly handled, stored, and used. A vet visit also confirms the kitten’s health before rehoming.

Vaccination alone isn’t enough—implementing good hygiene practices, isolating new cats, and preventing diseases are essential for long-term feline health. Proper, well-timed vaccinations play a crucial role in safeguarding kittens.

Making Veterinary Visits Easier for Cats: Stress-Free Tips & Techniques

Minimize stress for cats during veterinary visits by gradually getting them used to carriers and travel. Consider using calming products or talk to your vet about prescription gabapentin for stress relief before the visit. Administer medication the night before and morning of the appointment for best results.

For effective vaccination, follow ABCD (Advisory Board on Cat Diseases) guidelines, which recommend vaccinating based on a cat’s lifestyle and environmental risks. Kittens rely on maternal antibodies received through colostrum, providing passive immunity until around six weeks of age. Once kittens reach six weeks, vaccinations stimulate their active immunity to fight off disease.

Some kittens may not respond well to vaccines due to factors like health status, maternal antibodies, or stress. It’s essential to follow the appropriate vaccination schedule, considering each kitten’s health and exposure risk.

Avoid vaccinating pregnant cats (except for intranasal Bordetella) and never vaccinate kittens with a history of adverse reactions or those currently ill.

Conclusion

Tailor vaccination protocols to each cat’s unique needs and ensure a stress-free experience, fostering a healthier, happier feline future.

Revival’s Vaccine Finder is a valuable tool designed to help cat caretakers easily identify the most appropriate vaccines for their cats based on their specific needs. By answering a few simple questions about the cat’s lifestyle, age, and risk factors, the Vaccine Finder quickly narrows down the options to ensure your cat receives the right protection. This free tool simplifies the decision-making process, saving time and ensuring that your cat is vaccinated according to best practices. With Revival’s Vaccine Finder, you can confidently choose the right vaccines to safeguard your cat’s health.

If you need help, call us at 800.786.4751.