Let us try to understand whether it is normal for your cat to act strangely after getting a shot. After vaccination, it is normal for your pet to exhibit a few symptoms like fever, lameness, swelling, and redness in the injection site, appetite loss, and even lethargy and general malaise. At the vet, do your best to soothe your pet and put minimal restraint on him. In recent years, the risk of Feline Injection Site Sarcoma (FISS) has become more of a concern. There are certain vaccines all cats need aka core vaccines. Some cats even exhibit lingering fear and anxiety days after coming from the vet. In the vast majority of cases, your cat will feel fine and you wont notice any change in their behavior. When a cat is bitten by another cat, an infection is likely to develop. Lethargy After vaccination, it is normal for your pet to exhibit a few symptoms like fever, lameness, swelling, and 2. WebCan your cats personality change after a vaccination? Poisoning or envenomationToxins and venomous stings or bites can cause pain, damage tissues, and disrupt normal physiologic functions. WebHow will your cat feel after receiving a vaccine? 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. In some cases, it also causes oral ulceration andpneumonia. WebAfter a vaccine, around one-in-ten cats experience a soft swelling at the injection site. Cat Behavior After Vaccination A Complete Guide. If the sarcoma that is caused by vaccination is not treated, it will continue to grow. Cats dont actually have nine lives, so you need to do what you can to protect them. 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). 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. It is possible to perform blood tests to identify cats that are infected with this virus, and isolating such cats and preventing them from coming into contact with others is one way of preventing infection. The cat can behave strangely, get aggressive, show lethargy or refuse to eat. 6 Challenges of Owning a Cat You Need to Know, Changes In Cat Behaviour After Vet Visit? Cats lack the fat reserves to sustain them. After vaccination, some cats will go back to their routines as if nothing happened to them. I cant see how that can be rabies. After those initial rounds of vaccinations are finished, all youll have to do to keep your cat vaccinated is periodically get him booster shots. Vaccines are medication and like other medical treatments, have their own potential adverse effects. Every week we publish insightful pet articles to educate, inspire, and make your life easier. These diseases are highly infectious and seen worldwide. Again, this is normal behavior. These treatments can aggravate problems with the heart and kidneys. You have to consider the fact that visiting the vet often entails a lot of things that can be scary for your pet, including getting handled by the clinic staff. After an incubation stage, clinical signs of aggression, disorientation, and death rapidly progress. Cat booster shots Your vet should examine the cat to determine whether it has developed a serious allergic reaction to the vaccine. Owners should not get concerned if their cat starts acting strange after vaccination. Youll need to make an informed decision about whether to vaccinate your cat based on the available medical evidence. 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. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); I'm Richard, the lead writer for Senior Cat Wellness. Infection with FeLV is not an automatic death sentence. They also think that some shots may be doing more harm than good. For example, cats that have just been vaccinated are often lethargic. FCV is thought to be associated with chronicgingivitis/stomatitis, a very painful inflammation of the gums and teeth. Since then we noticed her behavior changed. The inflammation caused by the vaccination activates the malignant tumor and causes it to spread. I'm a proud owner of 5 adult cats (all adopted strays), including a senior cat who is now 20. As the cat receives its shot, its body starts adapting to the vaccine, causing some changes in the body and function. Feline leukemia: This serious viral infection spreads through many bodily fluids like saliva, feces, urine, and milk.The vaccine is recommended inkittens and then 12 months later. This will give the other cats something familiar to smell in the recently vaccinated pet. However, based on most recent data, the Vaccine Advisory Panel recommends that subsequent vaccines may be administered based on risk: yearly for high-risk cats, and every two years for lower-risk cats. 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. Watch out for symptoms like diarrhea, collapse, and breathing difficulties. Some streaming from the eyes and nose may also follow. Did they do routine blood work including a complete blood count, diagnostic profile, feline leukemia and feline aids tests? This virus is quite common among cats, especially cats that go outdoors and are involved in fighting (infection is mainly spread through cat bites). This will naturally make them more lethargic. The vaccine wont prevent the disease, but it will keep your kitty from getting very sick from it. Try to assess the cats condition if it is not eating. Cat booster shots Recommendations for treatment or additional diagnostic testing will be based on the specifics of your cats case and the results of their initial workup. All vaccines have to undergo rigorous safety and efficacy testing before they are licensed for use in cats by regulatory authorities. Feline herpesvirus, also known asfeline rhinotracheitis virus, causes severe signs of upper respiratory infection. Adverse effects from vaccines are very rare, especially in view of the millions of doses that are administered every year. Many illnesses will also make a cat lethargic, so its quite likely that a sick or recently vaccinated cat will be lethargic. Theres no better place to network, learn, and meet up with the friends and colleagues who make veterinary medicine so rewarding. Many cats experience mild side effects after vaccination like fever, lethargy, swelling and reduced energy. Although todays veterinarians are working hard to make a pets experience at a clinic less stressful, a visit to the clinic can still be scary for your cat, with all the unfamiliar faces, objects, and scents that he will encounter inside. Some cats may also have trouble walking and experience stomach upsets. In comparison, healthy kittens are never lethargic. 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. However, in colonies of cats with repeated outbreaks of disease, vaccination may play a role in helping protect cats. This happens because the immune response generated by a vaccine can make cats feel tired, achy, and generally unwell. If your cat refuses to eat after getting a shot, you should not worry about it. These symptoms are common and should subside independently in a few hours. The first one is called the prodromal stage. The vet will also think about how long vaccines are supposed to last and how likely your cat might be to come into contact with a certain disease. If you see your cat shivering after vaccination, it can be from the pain or swelling at the injection site. FISS remains rare. More marked side effects may include vomiting, diarrhoea, lameness, fever, signs of respiratory tract infection, or lumps at the site of injection. It is a preparation designed to provide protection against a specific infectious disease through stimulating an immune response that will protect the cat if it is subsequently exposed to the infection. So there you have it everything you need to know about cat vaccinations to keep your pet safe from super preventable diseases. Not all vaccines must be injected. In addition, vaccines can cause allergic reactions. There is always risk involved in vaccinating a cat. Keep in mind that vaccines dont offer total immunity from diseases. The Cat Gallery has partnered with International Cat Care to host the charitys online shop and manage the distribution of shop bought goods to customers. Rabies is endemic worldwide, and the vaccine is recommended for all pet cats. As the cat receives its shot, its body starts adapting to the vaccine, causing some changes in the body and function. 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. However, your pet may want to be alone during this period. Most persistently infected cats will die as a result of their infection. 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. Vaccines are necessary for most cats, especially those that spend most of their time outdoors. Some people are tempted to use homoeopathic vaccines or may have these recommended by a friend. Ultimately, cat owners should work with their veterinarians to limit the stress associated with visiting a clinic. FISS can cause a cancerous tumor at the site of the vaccination. So, it was with a heavy heart I had to leave again without an answer. Floating Ribs In Dogs Dog Rib Cage Protruding On One Side? 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 Non-core vaccines arent necessary for all cats. 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. 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. A potential problem is that vaccinated cats will also test positive on the routine tests used to detect FIV-infected cats, but newer diagnostic assays are becoming available that may overcome this problem. Chlamydophila felisis a type of bacteria that mainly causes conjunctivitis in cats. 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. Recent vaccinationCats may be lethargic for a day or two as their immune system responds to vaccination. Feline panleucopenia virus(also known as feline parvovirus or feline infectious enteritis) is a severe and frequently fatal cause of haemorrhagic gastroenteritis. It is possible that it has little energy to walk to the bowl after vaccination. The American Association of Feline Practitioners also considers the FVCRP to be a core vaccine. Cat booster shots Was her glucose normal? If your kitten or senior cat becomes lethargic, contact your veterinarian right away. Cat Behavior After Vaccination A Complete Guide. Older cats have weaker immune systems and are more prone to illness. Rabies is endemic worldwide, and the vaccine is recommended for all pet cats. This is a temporary lump that goes away after a couple of weeks and nothing to worry about. 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 A vet will offeressential vaccinations for your cat. Featured image: iStock.com/GoodLifeStudio. In short, almost any health condition can lead to lethargy in cats, including: InfectionsFighting off bacteria, viruses, or other pathogens takes a lot of energy. To read most recent questions Click here! Find whether it does not have an appetite or it is not willing to walk to its bowl. The shots come in a series every 3 to 4 weeks. This should go away on its own in 2-3 days as the symptoms ease. Loss of appetite is a common side effect of vaccination in cats. Independence America Holdings Corp. All Rights Reserved. While most cats behave normally after vaccination, it is common Such reactions can occur almost every time the cat gets a shot. Commonly, your feline friend reacts to these side effects of vaccination with a strange behavior that may concern you. The availability of different vaccines will vary between different countries, because some diseases are not present everywhere, and because vaccines are not necessarily licensed (and therefore available) in every country. Bordetella bronchisepticais another bacterial infection that can be a part of the upper respiratory infection complex (cat flu) in cats. Some experts believe that the felines already have tumors. Designate this as his recovery area where he can rest without being disturbed by the other members of the household. I didnt feel that I had enough evidence of rabies and that it could also have been some other possible diseases but significant testing would have to be done which would end up costing us over $5,000.00. Its rare, but it does happen. You need to ensure that your cat is left alone. You can try feeding the cat to see if it helps. I had then decided to take her to our local emergency vet clinic. Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar)Glucose (a type of sugar) is needed to fuel cells in a cats body, especially in the brain. On the other, theyll be more affected by any of the side effects. Contact your veterinarian if you have a lethargic kitten. Hi thanks for your email. Although the experience is never pleasant, felines must be vaccinated against rabies by law. WebMany pet owners and some animal scientists believe that we are over vaccinating our pets. 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. In comparison, healthy kittens are never lethargic. Also, she wants to clean herself and tries to play like she used to. Cats that stay at a boarding cattery will generally require an annual vaccination (or booster vaccine before the cat goes into the cattery) as this is a higher risk situation. Your vet may prescribe a feline-safe painkiller. This can manifest in the form of aggression or clinginess. All our advice is freely accessible to everyone, wherever you are in the world. Tell any children in the home not to disturb your cat. On the other hand, you can give a cat that is only mildly lethargic and otherwise okay a little time to see if they return to normal on their own. We took her to our vet. Put simply, lethargy is a cat slowing down when they dont feel good. Here at MyCuteAnimals.com we cover everything from training, care, health, nutrition, breeds, products, and much more. Fever, lethargy, reduced appetite, and swelling are all common. This happens because the immune response generated by a vaccine can make cats feel tired, achy, and generally unwell. After an incubation stage, clinical signs of aggression, disorientation, and death rapidly progress. Their guidelines, published by theAmerican Association of Feline Practitioners, are among the most trusted and utilized recommendations in the field. Liver and kidney diseaseWaste products build up when these organs fail, which disrupts normal chemical processes and makes cats feel terrible. In some cases, affected kittens may develop pneumonia. However, it is not a concern if the cat gets better with time and recovers in a few hours. You can discuss all these issues with your vet. They can also strengthen theirimmune system. The right vaccinations. There is always risk involved in vaccinating a cat. All rights reserved. The rabies vaccine is so important that its required by law, since the disease is fatal, highly contagious and transmissible to humans. WebAfter a vaccine, around one-in-ten cats experience a soft swelling at the injection site. Get practical pet health tips, articles, and insights from our veterinary community delivered weekly to your inbox. Some cats are temporarily different or never quite the same after vaccination. He told us she had a screw loose and that she had a shot knot. Fever, lethargy, reduced appetite, and swelling are all common. 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. Rabies is endemic worldwide, and the vaccine is recommended for all pet cats. Some that may be available include: Vaccination is generally a very safe procedure that has substantially reduced the impact of several very serious diseases. But some cats will behave differently. Lethargic cats often do sleep more than normal, but their lethargy remains unless the underlying problem is addressed. This usually takes a day. In more severe cases, your cat may require intravenous fluids and further observation. Sneezing, mild coughing, "snotty nose" or other respiratory signs may occur 2-5 days after your pet receives an intranasal vaccine. However, these adverse effects should subside after 24 to 48 hours. However, vaccination is essential for his health and your familys safety. Cat Diseases: What Is Bobcat Fever and Why Is It Deadly to Cats? It should start to disappear within a couple weeks. Sneezing, mild coughing, "snotty nose" or other respiratory signs may occur 2-5 days after your pet receives an intranasal vaccine. During times of stress, the virus can reactivate, and the cat can start to show signs of infection againeven if they have not been re-exposed to the disease. Affected cats can be treated successfully with appropriate antibiotics, but vaccination may be helpful in some circumstances as part of a control programme in an infected household, For further information onChlamydophila felis, seeChlamydophila felisinfection in cats. Future vaccine recommendation will be based on the cat's lifestyle.Feline leukemia cannot be cured, so prevention is a priority. Tiredness is a temporary state that resolves with rest or sleep. 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. These reactions should not be severe. Some cats may also have trouble walking and experience stomach upsets. Dog Ate Uncooked Rice? Many factors affect the likelihood of a cat developing an infectious disease. While the rabies vaccine is not listed as a core vaccine by the AAFP guidelines, it is required by law in most regions. Many illnesses will also make a cat lethargic, so its quite likely that a sick or recently vaccinated cat will be lethargic. Lethargy is a very nonspecific clinical signits seen with almost every health problem a cat could develop. The lungs and other internal organs will soon be affected. Many illnesses will also make a cat lethargic, so its quite likely that a sick or recently vaccinated cat will be lethargic. The FeLV vaccine protects against feline leukemia virus, which is a fatal disease in cats. Is she running a fever? The panel comprisesdedicated feline veterinarians and scientists and is regarded as a reputable source of cat vaccination standards. 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. 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. 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. The cost of your cats vaccines will vary depending on where you get them done. Your purchase directly supports the leading global cat welfare charity, International Cat Care. In some cases, affected kittens may develop pneumonia. Always inform your veterinarian if your pet has had prior reactions to any vaccine or medication. There are some risks and side effects associated with cat vaccination. WebMany pet owners and some animal scientists believe that we are over vaccinating our pets. However, as a charity, we need your support to enable us to keep delivering high quality and up to date information for everyone. What Is FIV and Why Is the FIV Vaccine No Longer Available? Certain medicationsLethargy can be a side effect of certain medications, including some anti-anxiety and pain-relieving medications commonly given to cats. Dehydration and electrolyte abnormalitiesWater and appropriate electrolyte levels are essential for a cats body to produce energy and function normally. This allows them to identify one another. Make a note of all the changes to your cats behavior. Is she weak? One type of cancer in cats, for example, is known to be caused by vaccinations. Adult cats need shots less often, usually every year or every 3 years, depending on how long a vaccine is designed to last. WebThere are usually three distinctive stages with rabies in cats. Your cat may experience a small amount of swelling at the injection site, making it more difficult for your cat to move. Vaccination causes a chemical reaction in the cats brain that lasts 24-48 hours. Kittens may also acquire infections from the queen before birth. These side effects are short-term and should subside on their own. The most commonly reported problem in cats is sleeping. Make sure that food and water are readily available to him. In addition, vaccines can cause allergic reactions. Rare vaccine side effects In very rare circumstances, a vaccine can cause a severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis). It is now well recognised that this is a very rare occurrence (probably less than 1 in 20,000 vaccines administered) and it seems that both vaccines and other injectable products can carry a small risk of inducing this in cats. WebThe vaccine protocols that are being questioned are those for the core vaccines administered to adult dogs and cats. Even if you reside in a state that doesnt mandate rabies shots by law, it remains advisable. Since then we noticed her behavior changed. 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. The effects are similar to human babies who become lethargic, cranky and even get fever after getting their shots. 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 may also run a high fever. 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. This will help minimize aggression because they will be both familiar with the scents in the clinic. The Veterinary Leadership Conference draws veterinarians from across the U.S. for education sessions that help develop leaders for the veterinary profession. Indoor cats may also pick up bacteria and viruses when they stay at a kennel and if you bring a new cat home. 2005 - 2023 WebMD LLC. For more information, please see ourPrivacy Policy. However, after that, the frequency of booster vaccinations may be only every 1-3 years depending on the vaccine, disease and risk of with the individual cat.