Vaccinating Your Cat: When And How Often?

by Marjorie Dorfman | More from this Blogger

25 Mar 2006 02:48 AM

To vaccinate or not to vaccinate your cat or cats is the question, but unfortunately, not even Shakespeare can clear up this issue. Most vets agree that you should vaccinate your cat or cats even if they never leave the confines of your home because there is always the risk that they can get out, if not carefully watched. Routine vaccinations provide your pets with enhanced protection against feline leukemia, upper respiratory infections and several other very unpleasant maladies. Nothing is the perfect answer or foolproof, but generally speaking, vaccines are one of the reasons that cats live longer and healthier lives.

Up until maybe ten years ago, there was a sort of "one size fits all' strategy concerning feline vaccinations. A kitten would receive a standard starter set of vaccines and every subsequent year, booster shots. But all that has changed now. While the yearly checkup is just as important as it ever was, both veterinarians and owners have transitioned into a more individual approach. This provides the best balance between benefit and risk.

Like all things, vaccines have a negative side. The risk in recent years of vaccine-induced tumors has become more prevalent. Still, the positive benefits far outweigh the harmful aspects. Effective cat care requires education, and vaccinations, as disease preventatives are a major part of a cat's overall wellness regimen.

Some say a cat should be vaccinated every three years, while others claim it should be an annual affair. There is certainly confusion on this issue, and each state has different requirements at least as far as the rabies vaccination is concerned. Do your pet a favor and become an educated pet owner. Learn all you can about this most important subject.

For more information on cat health and vaccinations, please visit www.catvaccines.com.

Learn more about Marjorie Dorfman

Marjorie Dorfman is a freelance writer and former teacher originally from Brooklyn, New York.

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