It should start to disappear within a couple weeks. This is partly because, should a fibrosarcoma develop at these sites, limb amputation is possible and offers a better chance of complete removal than trying to remove an invasive tumour from the neck region. 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. Not all vaccines must be injected. She started to get more aggressive. While the rabies vaccine is not listed as a core vaccine by the AAFP guidelines, it is required by law in most regions. Rare vaccine side effects In very rare circumstances, a vaccine can cause a severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis). While most cats behave normally after vaccination, it is common to see some changes in behavior of your feline friend for a few hours once it gets its vaccine shot. Documented reactions in these cases include behavioral aggression and separation anxiety; destruction and shredding of clothing and bedding; obsessive behavior such as barking, fearfulness, self-mutilation, tail chewing; pica (eating wood, stones, earth, and feces); seizures and epilepsy; fibrosarcomas at the injection site; and autoimmune It is not entirely clear why cats experience FISS. 2023 SeniorCatWellness.com. While the rabies vaccine is not listed as a core vaccine by the AAFP guidelines, it is required by law in most regions. Many cats are fortunate to go into a regressive state and appear perfectly healthy throughout their lives, but some do not fare as well. As cats age, they often spend more time quietly observing the world around them (or napping), but this isnt lethargy; its growing up. They told me she acted as if she had rabies and informed me I should have her put down. In more severe cases, your cat may require intravenous fluids and further observation. 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 sounds like your cat is having some neurologic symptoms that are very abnormal. However, you do not have to worry much about your cat. If your cat is still unwell 48 hours after its vaccination, then you should call your vet for advice. Your vet should examine the cat to determine whether it has developed a serious allergic reaction to the vaccine. Fearful cats will often display anxiety or even aggression even before the trip to the vet. Recently, my kitten (2 months old) had her first installment of vaccinations. Documented reactions in these cases include behavioral aggression and separation anxiety; destruction and shredding of clothing and bedding; obsessive behavior such as barking, fearfulness, self-mutilation, tail chewing; pica (eating wood, stones, earth, and feces); seizures and epilepsy; fibrosarcomas at the injection site; and autoimmune After a few days, you can expect your pet to revert to his true personality. The cat can behave strangely, get aggressive, show lethargy or refuse to eat. For example, cats that have just been vaccinated are often lethargic. We took her to our vet. There is always risk involved in vaccinating a cat. They are very dangerous to young cats, and the vaccines are considered to provide a good deal of protection with minimal risk. While cats are not natural carriers for the disease, they can be infected by a bite from any infected mammal and then pass it on to others. Owners should not get concerned if their cat starts acting strange after vaccination. A lethargic cat can look a lot like a tired cat, but there is an important difference. You have to consider the fact that visiting the vet often entails a lot of things that can be scary for your pet, including getting handled by the clinic staff. 1. 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. A vaccine is usually given by an injection under the skin, although sometimes may be given as drops into the eyes or nose. There are so many possibilities of what it could be. The effects are similar to human babies who become lethargic, cranky and even get fever after getting their shots. You should call the vet for advice if your cat feels ill after 48 hours of vaccination. In comparison, healthy kittens are never lethargic. The side effect that has received the most attention in recent years is fibrosarcoma this is a type of malignant tumour that can develop at the site of vaccination. A vet will offeressential vaccinations for your cat. WebMD does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Rabies is endemic worldwide, and the vaccine is recommended for all pet cats. The most commonly available vaccines are used to provide protection against the following infections: Vaccines can be divided into core vaccines and non-core vaccines. Some cats even exhibit lingering fear and anxiety days after coming from the vet. Since then we noticed her behavior changed. If they have not done some basic tests, Id recommend letting them do that. (The exact requirements will depend on the vaccine, so always make sure to walk through your kittens vaccine schedule with your vet.) Though rare, your cat may undergo a complete personality change. Dog Ate Uncooked Rice? After coming home, your cats may seem like total strangers. Mild signs, such as tiredness, mild fever, and decreased appetite, may be present for a short time. 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. However, these adverse effects should subside after 24 to 48 hours. However, these adverse effects should subside after 24 to 48 hours. 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. However, based on most recent data, the Vaccine Advisory Panel recommends that subsequent vaccines may be administered based on risk: yearly for high-risk cats, and every two years for lower-risk cats. Cat vaccines protect pets against fatal and infectious feline diseases, keeping them healthy and living longer. Recent vaccinationCats may be lethargic for a day or two as their immune system responds to vaccination. If your cat refuses to eat after getting a shot, you should not worry about it. Such reactions can occur almost every time the cat gets a shot. It should start to disappear within a couple weeks. Many cats experience mild side effects after vaccination like fever, lethargy, swelling and reduced energy. But some cats will behave differently. These treatments can aggravate problems with the heart and kidneys. WebAffected cats may have sneezing, eye and nasal discharge, conjunctivitis, lethargy, loss of appetite, sores on the gums and soft tissues of the oral cavity, and lameness. Did they do routine blood work including a complete blood count, diagnostic profile, feline leukemia and feline aids tests? Rabiesis significant not only for its effect on the cat but because it is a disease that is transmissible to humans and can be fatal. By clicking Subscribe, I agree to the WebMD, Smart Grocery Shopping When You Have Diabetes, Surprising Things You Didn't Know About Dogs and Cats, Smoking Pot Every Day Linked to Heart Risks, Artificial Sweetener Linked to Heart Risks, FDA Authorizes First At-Home Test for COVID and Flu, New Book: Take Control of Your Heart Disease Risk, MINOCA: The Heart Attack You Didnt See Coming, Health News and Information, Delivered to Your Inbox, Panleukopenia (also known as feline distemper). If your cat has little energy or limping syndrome, the walk can feel like a long journey, especially for an older cat with joint problems or arthritis pain. The rabies virus targets your cats central nervous system, causing aggression, paralysis and coma. It should start to disappear within a couple weeks. A cats immune system starts to adapt following a vaccine, which means that a cat may feel sick. 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 cats are allergic to vaccines. American Veterinary Medical Foundation (AVMF), What to expect after your pet's vaccination, Discomfort and local swelling at the vaccination site, Sneezing, mild coughing, "snotty nose" or other respiratory signs may occur 2-5 days after your pet receives an intranasal vaccine, Swelling of the muzzle and around the face, neck, or eyes. Anemia (low red blood cell count)A cats body needs the oxygen that red blood cells carry to make energy. After getting injected with a vaccine, you may also experience the same symptoms. Rabies vaccination is given every year or every three years, depending on state laws and the brand of vaccine used. WebDecreased appetite and activity. In comparison, healthy kittens are never lethargic. However, it is not a concern if the cat gets better with time and recovers in a few hours. 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. Cats that struggle with this side effect bounce back as quickly as they experienced the issue. 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. Support International Cat Care from as little 3, Sign up to our monthly newsletter and free e-magazine Intelligent Cat Care, Sign up to our monthly charity newsletter, Reg Charity 1117342 (England and Wales) Place Farm, Chilmark Road, Tisbury, Wiltshire, SP3 6LW, You are now being re-directed to an external website www.thecatgallery.co.uk. Less common side effects include: Twitching Itchy skin Vomiting Diarrhoea Limping. She started to get more aggressive. If your elderly cat has a chronic illness, then you should avoid vaccination. FVCRP, FIP, and Bordetella can be inhaled nasally but may not be as effective as injections. Copyright 1999 - 2023. Although vaccination does not always prevent infection with these viruses, it will help greatly in reducing the severity of disease if a vaccinated cat does become infected. WebHow will your cat feel after receiving a vaccine? 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. A small, firm swelling under the skin may develop at the site of a recent vaccination. This is more likely for older cats with arthritis or joint pain. 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. In comparison, healthy kittens are never lethargic. They also think that some shots may be doing more harm than good. Thank you for supporting International Cat Care through your shop purchases! Feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV)vaccination is available in some, but not all counties. A lot of cats will start their vaccines around 6 to 8 weeks old, and you can decide to either give your cat all the different types of shots he needs at once or stagger them out. All rights reserved. A vet must assess a cat with a lump that persists for weeks after vaccination. The first one is called the prodromal stage. Ondansetron For Cats (Zofran) All You Need To Know, Mini Hippo Dog - Everything You Need To Know. As a cat receives a shot, its immune system responds to the antibodies, causing it to look sick and uneasy. That can upset your cats stomach. Gastrointestinal problemsDiseases leading to poor digestion or nutrient absorption can reduce a cats energy levels. Kittens may also acquire infections from the queen before birth. All rights reserved. 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. (The exact requirements will depend on the vaccine, so always make sure to walk through your kittens vaccine schedule with your vet.). Some vaccines are recommended for all cats. He gave her a shot of cortizone. Her eyes have a hazy cloudy look and she is still stumbling around, however, her strength and will to keep her balance has greatly improved. When a cat is bitten by another cat, an infection is likely to develop. Then they must be boostered a year later.. But theycould still catch airborne germs that might come in through a window or door. Lethargy can be defined as an abnormal decrease in a cats activity level and alertness. Call your veterinarian immediately if your cat is extremely lethargic or if their lethargy occurs in combination with other serious symptoms like difficulty breathing or severe vomiting or diarrhea. To help your pet stay healthy, limit their contact with infected animals and to environments where diseases may be more common. As the cat receives its shot, its body starts adapting to the vaccine, causing some changes in the body and function. They divide cat vaccines into two categories: Core vaccines are those recommended for all cats, no matter where they live or under what conditions. TheFeline Vaccination Advisory Panelregularly evaluates and researches cat vaccination developments to make science-based recommendations. Your cat may experience a small amount of swelling at the injection site, making it more difficult for your cat to move. It has also been strongly recommended that all kittens are vaccinated against FeLV on the basis that younger cats are more susceptible to this infection and it cannot usually be predicted what the risks for the cat would be as it grows up. Feline Distemper (Panleukopenia), Feline Herpesvirus (FHV-1), and Feline Calicivirus (FCV), These three vaccines are combined into one (FVCRP vaccine), Swelling around the location of the injection, Swelling around the face, eyes, mouth, and neck, Low blood pressure and decreased heart rate. In comparison, healthy kittens are never lethargic. Click Yes to help us continue to make these improvements. WebSome cats will develop a mild reaction that may last for a few days to a week after the vaccination. Some cats are temporarily different or never quite the same after vaccination. Previously, many vets chose to administer shots to the neck. If your cat gets outside, you want to make sure they areprotected. Typically, these symptoms, including lethargy and lack of appetite, vanish after two to three days. Neurologic disordersDisease or injury affecting the neurologic system, especially the brain, can lead to lethargy in cats. 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. Since then we noticed her behavior changed. She started to get more aggressive. Lethargic and DroolingDiseases or injuries affecting the mouth are common causes of drooling, and they can cause lethargy too. Affected cats typically show sneezing, nasal discharge, conjunctivitis, eye discharge, and mouth ulcers. I had then decided to take her to our local emergency vet clinic. 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. Some cats may also have trouble walking and experience stomach upsets. Loss of appetite is a common side effect of vaccination in cats. These side effects are short-term and should subside on their own. 1. Some people are tempted to use homoeopathic vaccines or may have these recommended by a friend. Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar)Glucose (a type of sugar) is needed to fuel cells in a cats body, especially in the brain. While the rabies vaccine is not listed as a core vaccine by the AAFP guidelines, it is required by law in most regions. She stayed there and then was released. Vaccination causes a chemical reaction in the cats brain that lasts 24-48 hours. A trip to the vet for vaccination is never a pleasant experience for your cat. If it persists more than three weeks, or seems to be getting larger, you should contact your veterinarian. As the cat receives its shot, its body starts adapting to the vaccine, causing some changes in the body and function. Id encourage her to eat hand feed her, give her some smelling food, whatever it takes to get her to eat. Adverse effects from vaccines are very rare, especially in view of the millions of doses that are administered every year. Always inform your veterinarian if your pet has had prior reactions to any vaccine or medication. 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. A loss of appetite is a common side effect of vaccinations. Rare vaccine side effects In very rare circumstances, a vaccine can cause a severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis). Cat Diseases: What Is Bobcat Fever and Why Is It Deadly to Cats? Please consider making a contribution, big or small, to keep our content free, accurate and relevant. Was her glucose normal? But usually, these behavioral changes are temporary in nature. Infection with FeLV is not an automatic death sentence. Start your day with heartwarming and hilarious animal stories that will make you fall in love. Cat Behavior After Vaccination A Complete Guide. 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. Cat booster shots Attend topical CE meetings on subjects including animal welfare, wellbeing, economics, and public policy. It may also run a high fever. The virus can also survive for long periods in the environment so vaccination is the only real way to protect cats. Then the next day I called him back because If your cat has tolerated vaccinations well in the past, then there is no reason to deny it boosters, provided that its health hasnt recently faltered. What You Need to Know About Rabies Vaccines for Cats. As a pet owner, one of your first responsibilities is to get your four-legged friend vaccinated on schedule.