cat behavior after vaccination
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). Many illnesses will also make a cat lethargic, so its quite likely that a sick or recently vaccinated cat will be lethargic. It usually depends on theirage, overall health, and lifestyle. That can upset your cats stomach. As the cat receives its shot, its body starts adapting to the vaccine, causing some changes in the body and function. As a pet owner, one of your first responsibilities is to get your four-legged friend vaccinated on schedule. She started to get more aggressive. It should start to disappear within a couple weeks. It may also run a high fever. Copyright 1999 - 2023. Many cats experience mild side effects after vaccination like fever, lethargy, swelling and reduced energy. Then the next day I called him back because Rare vaccine side effects In very rare circumstances, a vaccine can cause a severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis). Some symptoms you can expect to see include sneezing, nasal congestion and discharge, andconjunctivitis. However, your pet may want to be alone during this period. Before going to the vet, it is a good idea to prepare a warm and cozy place for your cat. It is possible that it has little energy to walk to the bowl after vaccination. Since then we noticed her behavior changed. Sometimes, a cat can become aggressive to their humans and other pets in the household after vaccination or even after a visit to the vet for other purposes. Although the experience is never pleasant, felines must be vaccinated against rabies by law. 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. Let us try to understand whether it is normal for your cat to act strangely after getting a shot. Young kittens in multicat households (eg, breeding households) are most likely to be affected and there may also be mild upper respiratory signs. Vaccines are medication and like other medical treatments, have their own potential adverse effects. Then the next day I called him back because she started hanging her head and falling to the right and could not keep her balance. Though rare, your cat may undergo a complete personality change. We also discuss common cat vaccination concerns to help pet owners determine what they should expect. Designate this as his recovery area where he can rest without being disturbed by the other members of the household. 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. Some people are tempted to use homoeopathic vaccines or may have these recommended by a friend. In the early stages the affected cat may suffer from lethargy and pain in the affected area. Sometimes, the pet may even need further observation or other treatments. iCatCare may receive a commission or share in the net profit of some purchases made through the affiliate links. Treatment for lethargy in cats is directed at finding and resolving the underlying cause. However, a trip to the clinic is often a traumatizing experience for most cats. WebMany pet owners and some animal scientists believe that we are over vaccinating our pets. WebThe vaccine protocols that are being questioned are those for the core vaccines administered to adult dogs and cats. Rare vaccine side effects In very rare circumstances, a vaccine can cause a severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis). This will give the other cats something familiar to smell in the recently vaccinated pet. Feline herpesvirus, also known asfeline rhinotracheitis virus, causes severe signs of upper respiratory infection. WebLow energy (lethargy) Eating less Sleeping more Fever (high temperature) Mild swelling around the vaccine site that disappears in two - six weeks. This usually takes a day. Lethargic and WobblyCats who are wobbly could be suffering from a neurologic problem or metabolic disease, or they could simply be very weak. 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. The vaccine wont prevent the disease, but it will keep your kitty from getting very sick from it. 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. 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. Lethargic and DroolingDiseases or injuries affecting the mouth are common causes of drooling, and they can cause lethargy too. Some cats may also have trouble walking and experience stomach upsets. Theres no better place to network, learn, and meet up with the friends and colleagues who make veterinary medicine so rewarding. He gave her a shot of cortizone. The panel comprisesdedicated feline veterinarians and scientists and is regarded as a reputable source of cat vaccination standards. FCV is thought to be associated with chronicgingivitis/stomatitis, a very painful inflammation of the gums and teeth. 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 Goodness, this sounds like a very complicated case. They could even react to the rubber gloves that your vet wears to administer the vaccine. side effects associated with cat vaccination. Some of the more virulent strains cause hair loss and crusting on other parts of the body, as well as hepatitis and even death. When a cat is bitten by another cat, an infection is likely to develop. We use cookies to improve our website to make sure you have a better browsing experience. Its easier to stretch the skin and administer a shot. Its rare, but it does happen. 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. However, if you see any severe reactions like swollen eyes or face, breathing difficulty, diarrhea or collapse, you should report to the veterinarian. Decisions regarding the requirement for non-core vaccines may be based on the cats age, lifestyle and contact with other cats. The disease can negatively impact your cats immune system or cause anemia or cancer. 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. The bacterium can also be an occasional cause of pneumonia in young kittens. The journal Acta Veterinaria Scandinavica has stated that instances remain as low as 1 in 10,000. Try to assess the cats condition if it is not eating. Make sure that food and water are readily available to him. WebDecreased appetite and activity. 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. Some cats may also have trouble walking and experience stomach upsets. Others will continue showing fear and anxiety after coming home. This will give the feline enough time to groom and make himself smell familiar to the other cats. Hormonal abnormalities (e.g., diabetes)Abnormal hormone levels change physiologic processes throughout the body, which can make cats feel sick. I had then decided to take her to our local emergency vet clinic. 2005 - 2023 WebMD LLC. 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. If your kitten or senior cat becomes lethargic, contact your veterinarian right away. Here at MyCuteAnimals.com we cover everything from training, care, health, nutrition, breeds, products, and much more. He gave her a shot of cortizone. 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. So there you have it everything you need to know about cat vaccinations to keep your pet safe from super preventable diseases. 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. Stay current on important veterinary news, AVMA activities, and member services. American Association of Feline Practitioners. One type of cancer in cats, for example, is known to be caused by vaccinations. The key? 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. It can also be helpful to provide him with his favorite treats. Its natural for a cat to become listless and sleepy after vaccines are administered. Your cat may also need to undergo radiotherapy or chemotherapy. This is only a concern if it does not quickly recover. A small, firm swelling under the skin may develop at the site of a recent vaccination. Even though its a confusing topic, making sure your cat has the shots they need and keeping up with booster shots is very important. Many pet owners report their cats not eating after getting their vaccines. In the vast majority of cases, your cat will feel fine and you wont notice any change in their behavior. Cats of any age can get FeLV, but its typically considered a core vaccine for cats under 1 year old. 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 Id encourage her to eat hand feed her, give her some smelling food, whatever it takes to get her to eat. Start your day with heartwarming and hilarious animal stories that will make you fall in love. If you see your cat shivering after vaccination, it can be from the pain or swelling at the injection site. If you let your cat go outdoors, you should probably consider giving him non-core vaccines, since you have no idea what he could be exposed to outside. You can find out more about infectious upper respiratory disease at Todays Veterinary Practice (TVP). These reactions are generally treated with antihistamines and steroids. WebMD does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Attend topical CE meetings on subjects including animal welfare, wellbeing, economics, and public policy. The other three core vaccines are combined into a single three-in-one vaccine called the FVRCP vaccine. Cats dont actually have nine lives, so you need to do what you can to protect them. 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. 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. Although todays veterinarians are working hard to make a pets experience at a clinic less stressful, a visit to the clinic can still be scary for your cat, with all the unfamiliar faces, objects, and scents that he will encounter inside. There is always risk involved in vaccinating a cat. All vaccines have to undergo rigorous safety and efficacy testing before they are licensed for use in cats by regulatory authorities. Most cats want to sleep for a few hours after getting their shot. What Is FIV and Why Is the FIV Vaccine No Longer Available? 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. Rabies is endemic worldwide, and the vaccine is recommended for all pet cats. Many illnesses will also make a cat lethargic, so its quite likely that a sick or recently vaccinated cat will be lethargic. For example, fleas may remove so much blood from cats that they become anemic. If you go to the vet, you can probably expect an office visit charge in addition to the cost of the vaccine. He gave her a shot of cortizone. WebHow will your cat feel after receiving a vaccine? I have noticed she is not seeing very well but can hear us call her and will follow our calls. 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. Poisoning or envenomationToxins and venomous stings or bites can cause pain, damage tissues, and disrupt normal physiologic functions. This is a temporary lump that goes away after a couple of weeks and nothing to worry about. FVCRP, FIP, and Bordetella can be inhaled nasally but may not be as effective as injections. Dr. Debra, Recently, my kitten (2 months old) had her first installment of vaccinations. 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. 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.. 2023 SeniorCatWellness.com. The FeLV vaccine works to protect your cat againstfeline leukemia virus. When to give vaccines. The inflammation caused by the vaccination activates the malignant tumor and causes it to spread. WebAfter a vaccine, around one-in-ten cats experience a soft swelling at the injection site. The cost of your cats vaccines will vary depending on where you get them done. Transmitted through body fluids including saliva, urine, and feces, FeLV is spread when an infected cat comes into close contact with another cat that they groom or share bowls with. Feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV)vaccination is available in some, but not all counties. 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. On average, your cats core vaccines alone (without the office visit charge) can cost $40 to $80 for the first years worth of shots. In this stage, a rabid cat will usually exhibit changes in behavior that aren't typical for their personality: A shy cat can become This behavior can last for about a day and your pet should start eating in few hours.