Rabies
A viral disease of the nervous system that is both fatal and transmissible to humans. Early stages of rabies can easily be confused with other diseases. A rabies diagnosis must be verified with laboratory tests and the animal must be euthanized. This vaccine is required by law and must be given by a licensed veterinarian.
FVRCP combo vaccine, comprised of:
FVR – Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis (feline herpesvirus type 1): A viral upper respiratory infection with signs such as sneezing, nasal discharge, inflammation of the nose, and/or conjunctivitis.
C – Calicivirus: A common disease that affects cats. It is characterized by upper respiratory symptoms, pneumonia, oral ulcerations (sores in mouth), and occasionally arthritis.
P – Panleukopenia (feline distemper): A viral infection that affects multiple body systems, most infections cause no signs (low white blood cell count), but if signs are present the infection is serious and usually fatal. Cats are infected through the mouth and nose by exposure to infected animals. This virus can persist in the environment for over 1 year unless strong disinfectants are used.
FeLV – Feline Leukemia Virus: A viral form of blood cancer that suppresses the immune system and is at a higher risk of acquiring infections from bacteria and other infectious agents in the environment.
Vaccine Reactions
It is common for pets to experience some or all of the following mild side effects after receiving a vaccine, usually starting within hours of the vaccination. If these side effects last for more than 48 hours, or cause your pet significant discomfort, it is important for you to contact your veterinarian:
- Mild discomfort and local swelling at the injection site
- Reluctant to walk/run
- Decreased appetite ( lasting for one or two feedings)
- Mild fever, sneezing, coughing. A “snotty nose” or other respiratory signs may occur 2-5 days after your pet receives an intranasal/oral vaccine
- Difficulty breathing
More serious, but less common side effects, such as allergic reactions, may occur within minutes to hours after vaccination. These reactions can be life-threatening and are medical emergencies. Seek veterinary care immediately if any of these signs develop:
- Severe vomiting or diarrhea
- Itchy skin that may seem bumpy (“hives”)
- Swelling of the muzzle and around the face, neck, or eyes
- Severe coughing or difficulty breathing
- Collapse
Sometimes a small firm swelling (“lump”) may develop at the injection site . This is expected to resolve within 1 month with the exception of the rabies vaccine that lump may be observed for up to 4 months. Contact us if the swelling:
- Causes severe pain
- Continues to grow/ulcerate/and changes characteristics
- Persist beyond 5 months.
Always inform your veterinarian if your pet has had prior reactions to any vaccine or medication. We can personalize a vaccine premedication protocol for your pet. If in doubt, wait for 30-60 minutes following vaccination before taking your pet home.
