cat behavior after vaccination

Dr. Debra, Recently, my kitten (2 months old) had her first installment of vaccinations. Attend topical CE meetings on subjects including animal welfare, wellbeing, economics, and public policy. Cats of any age can get FeLV, but its typically considered a core vaccine for cats under 1 year old. The effectiveness of these vaccines should be evaluated carefully, and none of these should be regarded as core (or essential) vaccines. Treatment for lethargy in cats is directed at finding and resolving the underlying cause. A small, firm swelling under the skin may develop at the site of a recent vaccination. Your cat may also need to undergo radiotherapy or chemotherapy. UTIs in Cats (Urinary Tract Infections in Cats). In recent years, the risk of Feline Injection Site Sarcoma (FISS) has become more of a concern. Just as in humans, vaccinating your cat helps to protect him or her against several serious and/or life-threatening diseases. The FeLV vaccine protects against feline leukemia virus, which is a fatal disease in cats. Lethargic and VomitingVomiting is seen with problems directly affecting the digestive tract (inflammatory bowel disease, for example) and metabolic diseases like diabetes or kidney failure. All vaccines have the potential to cause side effects in cats. All vaccines have the potential to cause side effects in cats. Copyright 1999 - 2023. Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information, Feline viral rhinotracheitis (aka feline herpes virus): a disease that affects your cats upper respiratory system and sometimes his eyes, Feline calicivirus: a disease that causes respiratory infections and oral diseases, Feline panleukopenia virus: a disease that dangerously lowers your cats white blood cell count. While most cats behave normally after vaccination, it is common to see some changes in behavior of your feline friend for a few hours once it gets its vaccine shot. The most common side effects are mild and include lethargy, inappetence or tenderness at the injection site, usually lasting no longer than a few days. I had then decided to take her to our local emergency vet clinic. As the cat receives its shot, its body starts adapting to the vaccine, causing some changes in the body and function. Cats heading into stressful situations, such as boarding, may benefit from a core vaccine booster 7-10 days before. Flat Feet In Dogs UPDATED 2022 A Complete Guide. 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. From time to time, check on your cat. (The exact requirements will depend on the vaccine, so always make sure to walk through your kittens vaccine schedule with your vet.). The FeLV vaccine works to protect your cat againstfeline leukemia virus. However, as a charity, we need your support to enable us to keep delivering high quality and up to date information for everyone. Kittens and seniors tend to have fewer reserves and be a bit more fragile than adults in their prime, so lethargy may develop more quickly or be more severe in the very young or very old. After vaccination, some cats will go back to their routines as if nothing happened to them. It only means that your cat is experiencing these symptoms due to the interaction between his body and the vaccine. This happens because the immune response generated by a vaccine can make cats feel tired, achy, and generally unwell. In other cases, the cat that was recently vaccinated becomes the victim of aggression by the other feline members of your home. These reactions are generally treated with antihistamines and steroids. 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. If you let your cat go outdoors, you should probably consider giving him non-core vaccines, since you have no idea what he could be exposed to outside. What Are the Most Common Side Effects of Cat Vaccinations? This means that the neck should always be avoided. Limping This reaction mainly affects young kittens, usually at their first vaccination. There are many different strains of the FIV virus and it is not entirely clear as of yet how well the available vaccine protects against all these different strains, but studies suggest that it is able to provide a valuable degree of protection for cats at risk of exposure. (The exact requirements will depend on the vaccine, so always make sure to walk through your kittens vaccine schedule with your vet.) They also think that some shots may be doing more harm than good. 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. When the underlying cause can be successfully treated, the lethargy should resolve as well. In some cases, it also causes oral ulceration andpneumonia. Stay current on important veterinary news, AVMA activities, and member services. But for cats who are older than 1 year and are at low risk of exposure, the FeLV vaccine is considered a non-core vaccine. The FeLV vaccine is recommended as core for kittens. FCV is thought to be associated with chronicgingivitis/stomatitis, a very painful inflammation of the gums and teeth. Cat Vaccines are medication and like other medical treatments, have their own potential adverse effects. Youll need to make an informed decision about whether to vaccinate your cat based on the available medical evidence. Now, I am here on the internet trying to get answers. Because of this, after your cat receives any vaccine, it is sensible to monitor the injection site regularly and if a swelling at the site persists for several weeks and/or continues to enlarge, get it checked immediately by your vet. Most cats will need booster shots every one to three years, but always double-check with your vet to make sure because thats something youll want to stay on top of. All our advice is freely accessible to everyone, wherever you are in the world. Cats can be allergic to anything. The core vaccines are considered essential for all cats (including indoor-only cats) because of the widespread and/or severe nature of the diseases being protected against. Which shots they need. Better yet, schedule routine visits to the clinic so that you can bring your cats together. Cats Have a Reaction to Vaccinations 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 Mild signs, such as tiredness, mild fever, and decreased appetite, may be present for a short time. The most commonly reported problem in cats is sleeping. Because fibrosarcomas can be very difficult to completely remove by surgery, it has been recommended by groups in the USA that rabies vaccines are given in the right hind leg, FeLV vaccines in the left hind leg and FHV-1/FCV vaccines in the right front leg. Vaccines that are appropriate for some cats in some circumstances are considered noncore vaccines (or lifestyle vaccines). Vaccination can and do affect a cats behavior. It is not as common as FHV-1 or FCV (see above), but can sometimes be a problem especially in stressed cats and cats from large colonies. 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. Behavior change in a kitten after vaccination This is a temporary lump that goes away after a couple of weeks and nothing to worry about. Keep in mind that vaccines dont offer total immunity from diseases. WebDecreased appetite and activity. In comparison, healthy kittens are never lethargic. For example, fleas may remove so much blood from cats that they become anemic. If so, your cat is showing the classic signs of lethargy. Mild signs, such as tiredness, mild fever, and decreased appetite, may be present for a short time. Behavior change in a kitten after vaccination CancerDifferent types of cancer affect cats in distinct ways, but lethargy is a common clinical sign. WebThere are usually three distinctive stages with rabies in cats. Cat Vaccination Anemia (low red blood cell count)A cats body needs the oxygen that red blood cells carry to make energy. Though rare, your cat may undergo a complete personality change. Then the next day I called him back because They protect against: The feline viral rhinotracheitis, calicivirus, and panleukopenia vaccinations often come in a combination shot (FVRCP), which is sometimes called the distemper shot.. Some of the more virulent strains cause hair loss and crusting on other parts of the body, as well as hepatitis and even death. All kittens should receive their core vaccinations and any others that are agreed between you and your vet. While the rabies vaccine is not listed as a core vaccine by the AAFP guidelines, it is required by law in most regions. Rabies is endemic worldwide, and the vaccine is recommended for all pet cats. Cat If it persists more than three weeks, or seems to be getting larger, you should contact your veterinarian. Recommendations for treatment or additional diagnostic testing will be based on the specifics of your cats case and the results of their initial workup. Because of this, after your cat receives any vaccine, it is sensible to monitor the injection site regularly and if a swelling at the site persists for several weeks and/or continues to enlarge, get it checked immediately by your vet. Some cats may also have trouble walking and experience stomach upsets. Get the latest updates on your choice of veterinary topics delivered straight to your inbox. Ondansetron For Cats (Zofran) All You Need To Know, Mini Hippo Dog - Everything You Need To Know. 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. Then the next day I called him back because Cat Acting Strange After Vaccination Read the latest news about the AVMA and the veterinary profession, and search archives dating back to 2000. 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. Cat Lethargic and Limping After a Vaccine Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar)Glucose (a type of sugar) is needed to fuel cells in a cats body, especially in the brain. All vaccines have to undergo rigorous safety and efficacy testing before they are licensed for use in cats by regulatory authorities. 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 Sometimes, the pet may even need further observation or other treatments. 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. Vaccine Related Sarcomas Vaccination reactions in pets Adult cats need shots less often, usually every year or every 3 years, depending on how long a vaccine is designed to last. Rabiesis significant not only for its effect on the cat but because it is a disease that is transmissible to humans and can be fatal. Booster shots are additional shots that will maintain your cats safety against those deadly diseases as the initial protection from his earlier vaccines gets weaker. At the vet, do your best to soothe your pet and put minimal restraint on him. WebCan your cats personality change after a vaccination? This will help minimize aggression because they will be both familiar with the scents in the clinic. 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Its easier to stretch the skin and administer a shot. WebHow will your cat feel after receiving a vaccine? The viruses are often transmitted by direct or close contact between cats (eg, in sneezed droplets), but they may also survive for short periods in the environment. How To Euthanize A Cat With Over The Counter Drugs? Limping This reaction mainly affects young kittens, usually at their first vaccination. Some streaming from the eyes and nose may also follow. However, these shouldneverbe used they have no scientific basis and cannot provoke the specific immune response that is needed to provide protection. 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. These diseases are highly infectious and seen worldwide. Cats dont actually have nine lives, so you need to do what you can to protect them. They also think that some shots may be doing more harm than good. Your purchase directly supports the leading global cat welfare charity, International Cat Care. There are some risks and side effects associated with cat vaccination. 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. These reactions should not be severe. However, if you see any severe reactions like swollen eyes or face, breathing difficulty, diarrhea or collapse, you should report to the veterinarian. Keep track of product alerts for pet foods, animal feed, and products used by veterinarians or animal owners. WebThe vaccine protocols that are being questioned are those for the core vaccines administered to adult dogs and cats. A small, firm swelling under the skin may develop at the site of a recent vaccination. After an incubation stage, clinical signs of aggression, disorientation, and death rapidly progress. This is a cancerous tumor that develops following inflammation around the site of the injection. This is because the immune system has started reacting to the vaccine. Rare vaccine side effects In very rare circumstances, a vaccine can cause a severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis). WebYou may notice your cat has a temporary loss of appetite or is less lively a day or two after a vaccination, but this should resolve within 24-48 hours. This usually takes a day. WebMany pet owners and some animal scientists believe that we are over vaccinating our pets. However, it is normal for cats to feel ill for a few hours or days after vaccination. Cat Diseases: What Is Bobcat Fever and Why Is It Deadly to Cats? after Cats Have a Reaction to Vaccinations What You Need to Know About Rabies Vaccines for Cats. Whether you have a kitten or an adult cat, it should go without saying that vaccines are essential for your pets health and your safety. Well, it totally is. Cat vaccination recommendations are among the most contentious debates in veterinary medicine. Because of this, after your cat receives any vaccine, it is sensible to monitor the injection site regularly and if a swelling at the site persists for several weeks and/or continues to enlarge, get it checked immediately by your vet. In the early stages the affected cat may suffer from lethargy and pain in the affected area. This will naturally make them more lethargic. Cats that struggle with this side effect bounce back as quickly as they experienced the issue. If youre up too late, youll be tired the next day but will feel fine once you get some extra sleep. Your vet may prescribe a feline-safe painkiller. They provide cat owners, veterinary professionals and those who live and work with cats the resources, support, and advice they need to better care for cats. WebLow energy (lethargy) Eating less Sleeping more Fever (high temperature) Mild swelling around the vaccine site that disappears in two - six weeks. Dr. Debra, Recently, my kitten (2 months old) had her first installment of vaccinations. Although vaccination does not always prevent infection with these viruses, it will help greatly in reducing the severity of disease if a vaccinated cat does become infected. Cat WebThe vaccine protocols that are being questioned are those for the core vaccines administered to adult dogs and cats. As the cat receives its shot, its body starts adapting to the vaccine, causing some changes in the body and function. In addition, vaccines can cause allergic reactions. Cat 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. You can seek guidance and advice from your vet regarding such behavioral transformation. But is it possible for vaccines to alter a cats personality? Assess whether your cat isnt eating or is just reluctant to walk to its bowl. Fever, lethargy, reduced appetite, and swelling are all common. Is she eating? Some pet owners report a temporary change in the behavior or personality of the cat after vaccination. Do they seem drowsy or out of it? Are they not interested in whats going on around them? The right vaccinations. A vet must assess a cat with a lump that persists for weeks after vaccination. Vaccinations 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. If they are outdoor or indoor/outdoor, or they are young cats or seniors, your vet may recommend yearly FVRCP shots. This should go away on its own in 2-3 days as the symptoms ease. Make a note of all the changes to your cats behavior. This is a temporary lump that goes away after a couple of weeks and nothing to worry about. Many factors affect the likelihood of a cat developing an infectious disease. Limping This reaction mainly affects young kittens, usually at their first vaccination. Woman Tries Every Day For A Month To Rescue This Dog. Nutritional disordersCats cant be energetic and engaged without good nutrition. In comparison, healthy kittens are never lethargic. Since then we noticed her behavior changed. The virus can also survive for long periods in the environment so vaccination is the only real way to protect cats. That can upset your cats stomach. Feline Distemper (Panleukopenia), Feline Herpesvirus (FHV-1), and Feline Calicivirus (FCV), These three vaccines are combined into one (FVCRP vaccine), Swelling around the location of the injection, Swelling around the face, eyes, mouth, and neck, Low blood pressure and decreased heart rate. All rights reserved. Vaccinations WebLow energy (lethargy) Eating less Sleeping more Fever (high temperature) Mild swelling around the vaccine site that disappears in two - six weeks. Save my name and email in this browser for the next time I comment. Gastrointestinal problemsDiseases leading to poor digestion or nutrient absorption can reduce a cats energy levels. He gave her a shot of cortizone. Your vet always tells you how important it is to get your cat vaccinated, but you might still be wondering if its worth it. There is always risk involved in vaccinating a cat. These side effects are short-term and should subside on their own. A cat can have an allergic reaction to a vaccination. (The exact requirements will depend on the vaccine, so always make sure to walk through your kittens vaccine schedule with your vet.) Some of these problems, like cancer, are more common as pets get older, but lethargy can strike cats at any age. Please consider making a contribution, big or small, to keep our content free, accurate and relevant. FISS can cause a cancerous tumor at the site of the vaccination. Cats that have this vaccination often experience stiffened joints. Start your day with heartwarming and hilarious animal stories that will make you fall in love. In this stage, a rabid cat will usually exhibit changes in behavior that aren't typical for their personality: A shy cat can become Vaccines Cats Vaccines forfeline herpes virus(FHV-1) andfeline calicivirus(FCV) are always combined, as these two viruses together are the main causes of upper respiratory tract infections in cats (cat flu). It should start to disappear within a couple weeks. All vaccines have the potential to cause side effects in cats. **Click here to see the full list of Ask Dr. Debra Questions and Answers! Lower urinary tract problemsDiseases affecting the bladder and associated structures lead to lethargy, discomfort, and sometimes an inability to urinate. The rabies virus targets your cats central nervous system, causing aggression, paralysis and coma. If your cat gets outside, you want to make sure they areprotected. Always inform your veterinarian if your pet has had prior reactions to any vaccine or medication. Not all cats experience these problems after vaccination. Anyone who cares for his or her cat will want to protect it in this way and vaccination is a critical part of a proper preventive healthcare programme. They include: If your cat stays inside all of the time, you might think they areautomatically protected from these kinds of diseases. In many cases, lethargy is the bodys way of conserving energy to fight off illness or heal from injury. Some cats may also have trouble walking and experience stomach upsets. I just dont think putting her down without knowing exactly what she has is a reasonable option, but it seems to be the in thing to do these days. Rare vaccine side effects In very rare circumstances, a vaccine can cause a severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis). 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 your cat is still unwell 48 hours after its vaccination, then you should call your vet for advice. In addition, vaccines can cause allergic reactions. All rights reserved. As the cat receives its shot, its body starts adapting to the vaccine, causing some changes in the body and function. Commonly, your feline friend reacts to these side effects of vaccination with a strange behavior that may concern you. He did not know what was wrong. Many illnesses will also make a cat lethargic, so its quite likely that a sick or recently vaccinated cat will be lethargic. In the early stages the affected cat may suffer from lethargy and pain in the affected area. She started to get more aggressive. Rabies is endemic worldwide, and the vaccine is recommended for all pet cats. WebThere are usually three distinctive stages with rabies in cats. There is always risk involved in vaccinating a cat. However, it is a good idea to monitor your cat from time to time to ensure that he does not have an adverse reaction to the vaccine. But theycould still catch airborne germs that might come in through a window or door. However, these adverse effects should subside after 24 to 48 hours. The initial vaccine course is often started at 8-9 weeks of age, with a second injection 3-4 weeks later. Featured image: iStock.com/GoodLifeStudio. Some people are tempted to use homoeopathic vaccines or may have these recommended by a friend. side effects associated with cat vaccination. So, it was with a heavy heart I had to leave again without an answer. If you see your cat shivering after vaccination, it can be from the pain or swelling at the injection site. Cat Vaccinations She started to get more aggressive. Vaccines and Vaccinations: Individual Animals

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