FVRCP
(Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis Calici Panleukopenia):
These vaccines are important for all cats. They are very different
viruses and are only grouped together because all cats need them.
Panleukopenia, also known as feline distemper or feline infectious
enteritis, is a highly contagious viral infection caused by feline parvovirus
as well as canine parvoviruses 2a & 2b. Unvaccinated cats of any
age can become infected. The highest fatality rates are seen in
un-vaccinated kittens. The virus
produces a high fever, low white blood cell count and severe vomiting and diarrhea.
It is a hardy virus that is probably present on many farms and other
places cats may roam. All cats should be vaccinated beginning at
8 weeks of age.
The story on
Rhinotracheitis and Calici is very different. They are responsible for
80-90% of upper respiratory diseases in cats. These viruses are very
common and make many cats sick, but are rarely fatal. The vaccine will
not prevent the disease in many cases, but will decrease the severity.
These viruses are airborne and spread very easily. All cats
should be vaccinated beginning at 8 weeks of age.
*** Rabies:
Rabies is 100% fatal in all animals including humans and there is no
treatment. It is not common, but is always present in the wildlife of
this area. It is spread by bites. The vaccine is very good at
preventing the disease. To protect the public, all cats are required
by law to be vaccinated with the rabies vaccine.
FeLV (Feline
Leukemia Vaccine): Feline leukemia is the third virus for which we
vaccinate. This is a retro-virus which suppresses a cat’s immune
system and can predispose that cat to diseases, many of which are
fatal. Cats can have this virus for years before they show any signs.
Transmission is by contact with an infected cat’s saliva, therefore
cats that lick each other or eat from the same bowl can spread the
virus. The vaccine protects approximately 60-80% of cats who are
vaccinated. All outdoor cats or cats exposed to outdoor cats should receive this vaccine.
|
