While the rabies vaccine is not listed as a core vaccine by the AAFP guidelines, it is required by law in most regions. If these side effects last for more than a day or two, or cause your pet significant discomfort, it is important for you to contact your veterinarian: A small, firm swelling under the skin may develop at the site of a recent vaccination. Heres how to tell the difference between a tired cat and a lethargic cat, some possible causes of the lethargy, and what you should do. FeLV is found worldwide. 2023 SeniorCatWellness.com. These symptoms are common and should subside independently in a few hours. He told us she had a screw loose and that she had a shot knot. The FeLV vaccine works to protect your cat againstfeline leukemia virus. After a latent period lasting months or even years, the disease often progresses to a variety of associated conditions:lymphoma, anemia, or immunosuppression resulting in secondary disease. Vaccines that are appropriate for some cats in some circumstances are considered noncore vaccines (or lifestyle vaccines). He gave her a shot of cortizone. After vaccination, some cats will go back to their routines as if nothing happened to them. The virus also kills off white blood cells, leaving the young cats even more susceptible to secondary infections. A lethargic cat can look a lot like a tired cat, but there is an important difference. 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. While most cats behave normally after vaccination, it is common Some cats may also have trouble walking and experience stomach upsets. This tumor would need to be removed, and this is not easy around the neck. WebThere are usually three distinctive stages with rabies in cats. 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. 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.. A vaccine is usually given by an injection under the skin, although sometimes may be given as drops into the eyes or nose. He told me to bring her in and he would get to her when he could. Treatment for lethargy in cats is directed at finding and resolving the underlying cause. Limping This reaction mainly affects young kittens, usually at their first vaccination. 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. Hormonal abnormalities (e.g., diabetes)Abnormal hormone levels change physiologic processes throughout the body, which can make cats feel sick. Another sign of FISS includes the lump exceeding 2cm in diameter, especially if it keeps growing. Lower urinary tract problemsDiseases affecting the bladder and associated structures lead to lethargy, discomfort, and sometimes an inability to urinate. Let us try to understand whether it is normal for your cat to act strangely after getting a shot. This is only a concern if it does not quickly recover. He told us she had a screw loose and that she had a shot knot. Less common side effects include: Twitching Itchy skin Vomiting Diarrhoea Limping. Other vaccines are regarded as non-core and used when vaccination would provide valuable protection for an individual cat. WebSome cats will develop a mild reaction that may last for a few days to a week after the vaccination. This behavior can last for about a day and your pet should start eating in few hours. Heres What It Means, Cat Behavior After Vaccination A Complete Guide. (The exact requirements will depend on the vaccine, so always make sure to walk through your kittens vaccine schedule with your vet.) I'm experienced in all cat health-related matters, behavioral issues, grooming techniques, and general pet care. 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. Rabies is endemic worldwide, and the vaccine is recommended for all pet cats. Kittens may also acquire infections from the queen before birth. Complete Guide To Cat Paw Pad Growth, Cat Acting Strange After Vaccination? Loss of appetite is a common side effect of vaccination in cats. 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. Talk to your veterinarian if your cats lethargy worsens or fails to improve in a day or two. In recent years, the risk of Feline Injection Site Sarcoma (FISS) has become more of a concern. What Are the Most Common Side Effects of Cat Vaccinations? Not all vaccines must be injected. Lethargic and Not Eating / DrinkingLike lethargy, not eating or drinking well are nonspecific clinical signs that are seen with many cat diseases. FISS can cause a cancerous tumor at the site of the vaccination. Neurologic disordersDisease or injury affecting the neurologic system, especially the brain, can lead to lethargy in cats. In the early stages the affected cat may suffer from lethargy and pain in the affected area. While the rabies vaccine is not listed as a core vaccine by the AAFP guidelines, it is required by law in most regions. Your pet can temporarily change his usual behavior after getting vaccines either because he is experiencing side effects or if he was traumatized by the visit to the clinic. If they are outdoor or indoor/outdoor, or they are young cats or seniors, your vet may recommend yearly FVRCP shots. Cats withBordetella bronchispeticacan be treated effectively with appropriate antibiotics, and vaccination is not required in most cats. Youll need to make an informed decision about whether to vaccinate your cat based on the available medical evidence. Vaccines are medication and like other medical treatments, have their own potential adverse effects. 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. He told us she had a screw loose and that she had a shot knot. In comparison, healthy kittens are never lethargic. He did not know what was wrong. It is common for cats to experience mild reactions like lethargy, slight fever, localized swelling and reduced appetite in a few hours after getting the shot. 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. This can manifest in the form of aggression or clinginess. But some cats will behave differently. You need to ensure that your cat is left alone. The rabies vaccine is so important that its required by law, since the disease is fatal, highly contagious and transmissible to humans. Lethargic cats often do sleep more than normal, but their lethargy remains unless the underlying problem is addressed. To make a diagnosis, your veterinarian will start by taking a thorough health history and performing a complete physical examination. WebSome cats will develop a mild reaction that may last for a few days to a week after the vaccination. 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. So The Dodos compiled everything you need to know about cat vaccinations. Some vaccines are recommended for all cats. This happens because the immune response generated by a vaccine can make cats feel tired, achy, and generally unwell. Can you give me any feedback on your impressions and how I need to proceed with continued love and care for my little one? WebThere are usually three distinctive stages with rabies in cats. Rabies is endemic worldwide, and the vaccine is recommended for all pet cats. Cat Diseases: What Is Bobcat Fever and Why Is It Deadly to Cats? Cats can react badly to vaccines, which is an unavoidable side effect of the process. Infection with FeLV is not an automatic death sentence. 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Affected cats typically show sneezing, nasal discharge, conjunctivitis, eye discharge, and mouth ulcers. On average, your cats core vaccines alone (without the office visit charge) can cost $40 to $80 for the first years worth of shots. However, a trip to the clinic is often a traumatizing experience for most cats. Mild signs, such as tiredness, mild fever, and decreased appetite, may be present for a short time. Respiratory conditionsAnything that hinders the lungs ability to move oxygen into the bloodstream can lead to lethargy in cats. How To Euthanize A Cat With Over The Counter Drugs? WebHow will your cat feel after receiving a vaccine? In most cases, the risks posed by vaccination are outweighed by the safety that vaccines provide. Vaccines are designed to protect your cat from diseases that are really serious, contagious and often fatal. Your cat may need extra shots depending on how much time they spendoutside, how often they arearound other cats, and the diseases that are common in your area. If your kitten or senior cat becomes lethargic, contact your veterinarian right away. **Click here to see the full list of Ask Dr. Debra Questions and Answers! 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. I had then decided to take her to our local emergency vet clinic. These reactions can be life-threatening and are medical emergencies. The first one is called the prodromal stage. All vaccines have the potential to cause side effects in cats. There are certain vaccines all cats need aka core vaccines. 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). Generally, cats that go outside and may come across other cats of unknown status may be at risk of being exposed to FeLV, and vaccinating such cats may be very valuable (although the risks will vary between different regions). 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 Shots protect your cat from diseases caused by viruses and bacteria. I truly love this kitty and want to give her all the time and love that I can. Some that may be available include: Vaccination is generally a very safe procedure that has substantially reduced the impact of several very serious diseases. Vaccines are medication and like other medical treatments, have their own potential adverse effects. The other three core vaccines are combined into a single three-in-one vaccine called the FVRCP vaccine. Talk to your vet to figure out which approach is best for your pet. While most cats behave normally after vaccination, it is common She started to get more aggressive. WebLow energy (lethargy) Eating less Sleeping more Fever (high temperature) Mild swelling around the vaccine site that disappears in two - six weeks. Adult cats need shots less often, usually every year or every 3 years, depending on how long a vaccine is designed to last. In many cases, lethargy is the bodys way of conserving energy to fight off illness or heal from injury. If your cat gets outside, you want to make sure they areprotected. 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 As vaccinations are injected into a cats leg, some limited mobility is to be expected. However, these shouldneverbe used they have no scientific basis and cannot provoke the specific immune response that is needed to provide protection. 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. In the vast majority of cases, your cat will feel fine and you wont notice any change in their behavior. Certain medicationsLethargy can be a side effect of certain medications, including some anti-anxiety and pain-relieving medications commonly given to cats. 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. A trip to the vet for vaccination is never a pleasant experience for your cat. Cat vaccination recommendations are among the most contentious debates in veterinary medicine. 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. Outbreaks of infection with this virus are common and a high proportion of affected cats can die. This normally lasts for around 48 hours. It sounds like your cat is having some neurologic symptoms that are very abnormal. Cats dont actually have nine lives, so you need to do what you can to protect them. The virus can also survive for long periods in the environment so vaccination is the only real way to protect cats. 1. These reactions should not be severe. Every topic on our website is thoroughly researched and professionally written. Their guidelines, published by theAmerican Association of Feline Practitioners, are among the most trusted and utilized recommendations in the field. While the disease usually starts with decreased energy and low appetite, it progresses to vomiting and diarrhea. Lethargic and Losing WeightA poor appetite can lead to weight loss, but so can diseases like hyperthyroidism or diabetes, even if your cat is eating well. It is normal for your cat to experience mild symptoms ranging from soreness at the site of injection to fever, lethargy and allergic reactions. However, vaccination is essential for his health and your familys safety. how long do cat vaccine side effects last, how long do side effects of distemper vaccine last, how long does a vaccine lump last in dogs, how to make cat feel better after vaccines, how to make cat feel better after vaccines uk, negative side effects of rabies vaccine in dogs, side effects of distemper vaccine in cats, side effects of distemper vaccine in dogs, side effects of feline leukemia vaccination, side effects of rabies vaccine in older dogs. Is your cat lying around more than normal? Senior cats may slow down a bit more, but extreme or sudden changes are usually a sign of a health problem. Though rare, your cat may undergo a complete personality change. A number of FeLV vaccines are also available and are effective in protecting cats. What You Need to Know About Rabies Vaccines for Cats. Future vaccine recommendation will be based on the cat's lifestyle.Feline leukemia cannot be cured, so prevention is a priority. Its advisable to get your cat inoculated if your cat roams outside. Get the latest updates on your choice of veterinary topics delivered straight to your inbox. Since then we noticed her behavior changed. I dont know how long after the vaccines that the signs start. 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. 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. side effects associated with cat vaccination. This is a temporary lump that goes away after a couple of weeks and nothing to worry about. (The exact requirements will depend on the vaccine, so always make sure to walk through your kittens vaccine schedule with your vet.) Limping This reaction mainly affects young kittens, usually at their first vaccination. Save my name and email in this browser for the next time I comment. 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. Fever, lethargy, reduced appetite, and swelling are all common. This allows veterinarians to efficiently administer the vaccines all at once, instead of having to inject a cat three separate times in one visit: If your cat is an indoor adult cat, FVRCP can be done every three years. Such reactions can occur almost every time the cat gets a shot. After an incubation stage, clinical signs of aggression, disorientation, and death rapidly progress. This may include: Tests for feline leukemia virus and feline immunodeficiency virus. Keep track of product alerts for pet foods, animal feed, and products used by veterinarians or animal owners. Also, other vaccinations are highly recommended to protect your cat against infectious diseases. If the cat has not eaten for over a day or it has other symptoms like fever or pain, you should consult the vet to see what is wrong. These are perfectly normal although it can be disconcerting to see your happy cat lack his usual vigor. Rabies is endemic worldwide, and the vaccine is recommended for all pet cats. Decisions regarding the requirement for non-core vaccines may be based on the cats age, lifestyle and contact with other cats. 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. It should start to disappear within a couple weeks. After an incubation stage, clinical signs of aggression, disorientation, and death rapidly progress. WebThe vaccine protocols that are being questioned are those for the core vaccines administered to adult dogs and cats. However, these adverse effects should subside after 24 to 48 hours. The initial vaccination series consists of two doses spaced three to four weeks apart, followed by revaccination one year later for all adult cats. 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. WebMany pet owners and some animal scientists believe that we are over vaccinating our pets. These dangers alone are not enough to avoid getting feline vaccinations, though. Could it be infectious? 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. 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. This was due to the flexibility of the skin in this area. Start your day with heartwarming and hilarious animal stories that will make you fall in love. When a cat is bitten by another cat, an infection is likely to develop. The rabies virus targets your cats central nervous system, causing aggression, paralysis and coma. Cats lack the fat reserves to sustain them. So, it was with a heavy heart I had to leave again without an answer. Chlamydophila felisis a type of bacteria that mainly causes conjunctivitis in cats. Make sure that food and water are readily available to him. After a few days, you can expect your pet to revert to his true personality. You should always discuss with your vet what vaccines your own cat may require. In this stage, a rabid cat will usually exhibit changes in behavior that aren't typical for their personality: A shy cat can become