Vaccination

‘An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure’

Vaccines are designed to train the cat’s immune system to respond to a known disease with greater effectiveness. A vaccinated cat has a much better chance of survival than an unvaccinated one when exposed to a preventable disease. A number of feline diseases are fatal, but can be avoided with a proper vaccination plan. Our goal is to prevent, rather than treat, when possible.

The ‘distemper’ vaccine is a group of gastrointestinal and respiratory disease viruses delivered in a single injection under the skin. These diseases can be airborne, as well as brought home on your clothing or shoes. Only one of this group requires contact with a cat. This vaccine is typically given in a series as a kitten, and annually thereafter.

The rabies vaccine is recommended for all cats. This disease is fatal to people and pets. In Michigan, bats are the primary carrier of rabies and can be found almost everywhere. Even indoor only cats are at risk since bats can enter all buildings. The feline leukemia vaccine is critical for any cat that may come into contact with other cats. A cat living in a third floor apartment has a low risk of exposure. A cat living in a home with screened windows on the first floor is at risk for feline leukemia exposure. Feline leukemia is a deadly but preventable disease.

There are other vaccines on the market. We do not recommend the vaccines for ringworm, FIV, and bordatella for the average cat at this time. These vaccines may be appropriate in certain circumstances.

Overall, prevent, prevent, prevent. These diseases are much more easily and successfully prevented that treated once they occur.