Vaccinations for kittens start at 6 to 8 weeks of age. The vaccinations will protect kittens against several diseases, which affect respiratory, gastrointestinal, and nervous systems. The following are feline preventable diseases:
Rabies – This fatal infection will affect the central nervous system. The virus is transmitted primarily with saliva through the bite of an infected animal.
Viral Rhinotracheitis – Very common respiratory infection which can be fatal in kittens. Decreased appetite, sneezing and high fever followed by a thick discharge from the eyes are often observed.
Calicivirus – A respiratory infection that is not usually fatal. The signs are similar to Viral Rhinotracheitis and some times ulcers can be seen on the tongue and in the mouth.
Feline Leukemia Virus – A highly contagious and devastating viral disease that is a major cause of death in cats. It decreases the ability of the immune system to respond to infection.
Chlamydia – Chlamydia infection is a common respiratory infection similar to Viral Rhinotracheitis. It is rarely fatal by itself, but it sets the cat up for more serious infections. Usually may recur when the cat is ill or stressed.
The vaccinations need to be repeated every three weeks until the kitten is eighteen weeks old. Please note that the Rabies vaccination is recommended and provided when the kitten is twelve weeks of age.
