Feline Vaccinations

The core vaccinations used in the UK provide immunity against:

1. Cat Flu - this condition is caused by a number of infectious agents, the main ones being Feline Herpesvirus and Feline Calicivirus. These viruses are highly infectious and cat flu spreads rapidly through cats in close proximity, hence the request by all reputable catteries that cats be vaccinated before boarding. As with human flu, infection is most serious in young and old animals, but it is debilitating for all cats and should be considered a core vaccine for all
   
2. Feline Infectious Enteritis - this condition is caused by Feline Panleukopaenia Virus which is closely related to Canine Parvovirus and causes severe fever, vomiting, depression and immunosuppression which is often fatal. It can be carried into houses via clothing, hands or shoes, and can be contracted at any age, so must be considered a core vaccine for all cats, including those kept entirely indoors
   
3. Feline Leukaemia (FeLV) - this condition causes immunosuppression and is linked with some cancerous conditions in cats. It is passed by saliva and young unvaccinated cats are at greatest risk. All healthy cats with a potential risk of exposure to FeLV (eg. outdoor access, multicat household with unknown histories) should be vaccinated, each individual case can be discussed with your vet before starting the primary course

Non-core vaccines are also available in specific cases against Rabies, and the respiratory pathogens, Chlamydophila and Bordatella.  These are reserved for use under Veterinary guidance, eg for overseas travel, breeding catteries etc.

There are no vaccines available in the UK for Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV) or Feline Infectious Peritonitis.

Primary Course

Kittens should be vaccinated twice, the first vaccine given at 9 weeks and the second at 12 weeks. It is essential that this initial course is followed up with a booster a year later in case the initial course did not stimulate sufficient immunity.

Adult cats with unknown vaccination status should also receive 2 vaccinations at an interval of 2-4 weeks.

Annual Boosters

Immunity wanes over time, and booster vaccinations are required to boost immunity in cats and reduce the risk of infection. Frequency of boosters should be discussed for each individual cat on a risk-assessment basis, but all cats in high-risk situations (eg regular cattery stays) should be vaccinated annually.

If a kitten misses the first annual booster by more than 3 months, the primary course should be restarted.

As susceptibility to FeLV infection reduces with age, FeLV boosters can be extended to every 3 years once the cat is 3-4 years old.