Feline calicivirusencompasses a number of viral strains that cause signs of upper respiratory infection, such as sneezing and nasal discharge as well as oral ulcerations. They also think that some shots may be doing more harm than good. Vaccines are medication and like other medical treatments, have their own potential adverse effects. But some cats will behave differently. A cat can have an allergic reaction to a vaccination. This can even happen to cats that have bonded quite well. I dont know how long after the vaccines that the signs start. 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. how long do cat vaccine side effects last, how long do side effects of distemper vaccine last, how long does a vaccine lump last in dogs, how to make cat feel better after vaccines, how to make cat feel better after vaccines uk, negative side effects of rabies vaccine in dogs, side effects of distemper vaccine in cats, side effects of distemper vaccine in dogs, side effects of feline leukemia vaccination, side effects of rabies vaccine in older dogs. Cat Lethargic and Limping After a Vaccine What Is FIV and Why Is the FIV Vaccine No Longer Available? To make a diagnosis, your veterinarian will start by taking a thorough health history and performing a complete physical examination. Cats can react badly to vaccines, which is an unavoidable side effect of the process. But is it possible for vaccines to alter a cats personality? However, in colonies of cats with repeated outbreaks of disease, vaccination may play a role in helping protect cats. Cat booster shots Heart diseaseA heart that isnt pumping normally cant move blood around the body well. Vaccines and Vaccinations: Individual Animals These reactions can be life-threatening and are medical emergencies. 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. Cat If it persists more than three weeks, or seems to be getting larger, you should contact your veterinarian. These reactions are generally treated with antihistamines and steroids. This happens because the immune response generated by a vaccine can make cats feel tired, achy, and generally unwell. Vaccines are medication and like other medical treatments, have their own potential adverse effects. 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 American Association of Feline Practitioners, Feline rhinotracheitis virus/herpesvirus 1 (FVR/FHV-1), How likely they are to be exposed to a pathogen, FVRCP (core; only if first shot given at 10-12 weeks), FeLV (core; only if first shot given at 10-12 weeks), FVRCP (every 3 years for indoor cats, and every year for indoor/outdoor, outdoor-only, very young, or senior cats), Rabies (1-year or 3-year vaccine depending on state laws). Vaccination reactions in pets However, vaccination is essential for his health and your familys safety. Future vaccine recommendation will be based on the cat's lifestyle.Feline leukemia cannot be cured, so prevention is a priority. I have noticed she is not seeing very well but can hear us call her and will follow our calls. However, your pet may want to be alone during this period. Understanding vaccinosis in dogs and cats **Click here to see the full list of Ask Dr. Debra Questions and Answers! He gave her a shot of cortizone. In some cases, affected kittens may develop pneumonia. As the cat receives its shot, its body starts adapting to the vaccine, causing some changes in the body and function. WebDecreased appetite and activity. For more information, please see ourPrivacy Policy. The lungs and other internal organs will soon be affected. What You Need to Know About Rabies Vaccines for Cats. WebMany pet owners and some animal scientists believe that we are over vaccinating our pets. Signs that your cat is allergic to the vaccination include: These reactions will be treated with steroids or antihistamines to reduce the impact of the allergy. 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. Though rare, your cat may undergo a complete personality change. Tell any children in the home not to disturb your cat. Nutritional disordersCats cant be energetic and engaged without good nutrition. However, be aware that your cats appetite may not be normal during this period. Cats lack the fat reserves to sustain them. If you present your cat to a vet with FISS, surgery will be required to remove the tumor. FCV is thought to be associated with chronicgingivitis/stomatitis, a very painful inflammation of the gums and teeth. The panel comprisesdedicated feline veterinarians and scientists and is regarded as a reputable source of cat vaccination standards. 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. She started to get more aggressive. Decisions regarding the requirement for non-core vaccines may be based on the cats age, lifestyle and contact with other cats. She started to get more aggressive. 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. All vaccines have the potential to cause side effects in cats. All vaccines have the potential to cause side effects in cats. The other three core vaccines are combined into a single three-in-one vaccine called the FVRCP vaccine. Some experts believe that the felines already have tumors. 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. It can also be helpful to provide him with his favorite treats. It should start to disappear within a couple weeks. However, these adverse effects should subside after 24 to 48 hours. If your kitten or senior cat becomes lethargic, contact your veterinarian right away. He told me to bring her in and he would get to her when he could. Talk to your vet to figure out which approach is best for your pet. 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. Some cats may also have trouble walking and experience stomach upsets. 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. The FeLV vaccine protects against feline leukemia virus, which is a fatal disease in cats. As a cat receives a shot, its immune system responds to the antibodies, causing it to look sick and uneasy. Cats that have this vaccination often experience stiffened joints. It sounds like your cat is having some neurologic symptoms that are very abnormal. WebThe vaccine protocols that are being questioned are those for the core vaccines administered to adult dogs and cats. A vet will offeressential vaccinations for your cat. Many illnesses will also make a cat lethargic, so its quite likely that a sick or recently vaccinated cat will be lethargic. A loss of appetite is a common side effect of vaccinations. Cat vaccination 10 things you should A lot of cats will start their vaccines around 6 to 8 weeks old, and you can decide to either give your cat all the different types of shots he needs at once or stagger them out. Do Cats Understand Human Smiles And Facial Expressions? There are so many possibilities of what it could be. Vaccines are medication and like other medical treatments, have their own potential adverse effects. While the rabies vaccine is not listed as a core vaccine by the AAFP guidelines, it is required by law in most regions. 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. In the vast majority of cases, your cat will feel fine and you wont notice any change in their behavior. Then the next day I called him back because 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. Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar)Glucose (a type of sugar) is needed to fuel cells in a cats body, especially in the brain. The rabies vaccine is so important that its required by law, since the disease is fatal, highly contagious and transmissible to humans. Your vet always tells you how important it is to get your cat vaccinated, but you might still be wondering if its worth it. Vaccination can and do affect a cats behavior. Technically, lethargy in cats is never normal, but it is sometimes expected. WebLow energy (lethargy) Eating less Sleeping more Fever (high temperature) Mild swelling around the vaccine site that disappears in two - six weeks. Feline panleucopenia virus(also known as feline parvovirus or feline infectious enteritis) is a severe and frequently fatal cause of haemorrhagic gastroenteritis. American Association of Feline Practitioners. Support International Cat Care from as little 3, Sign up to our monthly newsletter and free e-magazine Intelligent Cat Care, Sign up to our monthly charity newsletter, Reg Charity 1117342 (England and Wales) Place Farm, Chilmark Road, Tisbury, Wiltshire, SP3 6LW, You are now being re-directed to an external website www.thecatgallery.co.uk. Some vaccines are recommended for all cats. More marked side effects may include vomiting, diarrhoea, lameness, fever, signs of respiratory tract infection, or lumps at the site of injection. Cat vaccination 10 things you should All kittens should receive their core vaccinations and any others that are agreed between you and your vet. It should start to disappear within a couple weeks. The right vaccinations. Click Yes to help us continue to make these improvements. Kittens should start getting vaccinations when they are 6 to 8 weeks old until they are about 16 weeks old. Lethargic and DroolingDiseases or injuries affecting the mouth are common causes of drooling, and they can cause lethargy too. 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. After vaccination, some cats will go back to their routines as if nothing happened to them. 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. Fever, lethargy, reduced appetite, and swelling are all common. Find whether it does not have an appetite or it is not willing to walk to its bowl. JUMP TO: Core vaccines | Non-core vaccines | Vaccine costs | Vaccine schedule | Booster shots. 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. 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. Cats withBordetella bronchispeticacan be treated effectively with appropriate antibiotics, and vaccination is not required in most cats. I truly love this kitty and want to give her all the time and love that I can. 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. 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. 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. You can discuss all these issues with your vet. 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. All rights reserved. This is more likely for older cats with arthritis or joint pain. Try to assess the cats condition if it is not eating. Since then we noticed her behavior changed. I'm a proud owner of 5 adult cats (all adopted strays), including a senior cat who is now 20. Cats of any age can get FeLV, but its typically considered a core vaccine for cats under 1 year old. As the cat receives its shot, its body starts adapting to the vaccine, causing some changes in the body and function. after 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. 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. Cat vaccines protect pets against fatal and infectious feline diseases, keeping them healthy and living longer. WebAfter a vaccine, around one-in-ten cats experience a soft swelling at the injection site. Only use vaccines that are recommended by your vet. The FeLV vaccine is recommended as core for kittens. Then they must be boostered a year later.. Fever, lethargy, reduced appetite, and swelling are all common. When a cat is bitten by another cat, an infection is likely to develop. Vaccinating your cat So, it was with a heavy heart I had to leave again without an answer. Bordetella bronchisepticais another bacterial infection that can be a part of the upper respiratory infection complex (cat flu) in cats. Non-core vaccines arent necessary for all cats. Some cats may also have trouble walking and experience stomach upsets. Rabies is endemic worldwide, and the vaccine is recommended for all pet cats. This tumor would need to be removed, and this is not easy around the neck. 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. Vaccines (The exact requirements will depend on the vaccine, so always make sure to walk through your kittens vaccine schedule with your vet.) Neurologic disordersDisease or injury affecting the neurologic system, especially the brain, can lead to lethargy in cats. You can try feeding the cat to see if it helps. 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. Rabies is an important disease and although it is more common in dogs (and more commonly passed from dogs to humans than cats to humans) cats can be infected and can be a source of human infection. Could it be infectious? Anemia (low red blood cell count)A cats body needs the oxygen that red blood cells carry to make energy. 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. You should call the vet for advice if your cat feels ill after 48 hours of vaccination. This will give the feline enough time to groom and make himself smell familiar to the other cats. Cat Personality Change After Vaccinations Its easy to be overwhelmed when you hear conflicting information about whether your cat needs them and the adverse effects they may have. He told us she had a screw loose and that she had a shot knot. This virus is quite common among cats, especially cats that go outdoors and are involved in fighting (infection is mainly spread through cat bites). FISS can cause a cancerous tumor at the site of the vaccination. Watch out for symptoms like diarrhea, collapse, and breathing difficulties. WebCan your cats personality change after a vaccination? Start your day with heartwarming and hilarious animal stories that will make you fall in love. Cat Although the experience is never pleasant, felines must be vaccinated against rabies by law. The cat can behave strangely, get aggressive, show lethargy or refuse to eat. The disease is commutable among animals and humans. 1. Again, this is normal behavior. When it comes to medicine, there is no one-size-fits-all approach. However, these adverse effects should subside after 24 to 48 hours. And a visit to the vet can be doubly scary for a feline if injections are added to the equation. This happens because the immune response generated by a vaccine can make cats feel tired, achy, and generally unwell. WebCan your cats personality change after a vaccination? Limping syndrome in cats is a temporary problem. 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. All vaccines have the potential to cause side effects in cats. If your cat belongs to the second camp, there are a few things that you can do to make him feel better while recovering. After getting injected with a vaccine, you may also experience the same symptoms. Provide for his needs and keep some distance. You can seek guidance and advice from your vet regarding such behavioral transformation. FeLV is found worldwide. Tiredness is a temporary state that resolves with rest or sleep. Your cat may also need to undergo radiotherapy or chemotherapy. Some common side effects of feline vaccinations include: These side effects should be short-lived. Poisoning or envenomationToxins and venomous stings or bites can cause pain, damage tissues, and disrupt normal physiologic functions. Seefeline herpes virusandfeline calicivirus. 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. 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. It may also run a high fever. The vaccine wont prevent the disease, but it will keep your kitty from getting very sick from it. Cats dont actually have nine lives, so you need to do what you can to protect them. Cats Have a Reaction to Vaccinations WebHow will your cat feel after receiving a vaccine? Cat booster shots Can you give me any feedback on your impressions and how I need to proceed with continued love and care for my little one? Vaccine Related Sarcomas The Veterinary Leadership Conference draws veterinarians from across the U.S. for education sessions that help develop leaders for the veterinary profession. Lower urinary tract problemsDiseases affecting the bladder and associated structures lead to lethargy, discomfort, and sometimes an inability to urinate. Many cats are fortunate to go into a regressive state and appear perfectly healthy throughout their lives, but some do not fare as well. The most alarming reaction to vaccination is Feline Injection Site Sarcoma (FISS). As the cat receives its shot, its body starts adapting to the vaccine, causing some changes in the body and function. Core vaccines for cats are: The FVRCP vaccine is a combination vaccine to protect your cat from three pretty serious diseases: These diseases can affect things like your cats respiratory system and white blood cell count. This was due to the flexibility of the skin in this area. Vaccines are medication and like other medical treatments, have their own potential adverse effects. These treatments can aggravate problems with the heart and kidneys. It should start to disappear within a couple weeks. How To Euthanize A Cat With Over The Counter Drugs? They divide cat vaccines into two categories: Core vaccines are those recommended for all cats, no matter where they live or under what conditions. They could even react to the rubber gloves that your vet wears to administer the vaccine. The most commonly available vaccines are used to provide protection against the following infections: Vaccines can be divided into core vaccines and non-core vaccines. Cats Have a Reaction to Vaccinations She started to get more aggressive. Please consider making a contribution, big or small, to keep our content free, accurate and relevant. after Chlamydophila felisis a type of bacteria that mainly causes conjunctivitis in cats. An allergic reaction is more concerning than a typical reaction to a vaccine. Some symptoms you can expect to see include sneezing, nasal congestion and discharge, andconjunctivitis. 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. In addition, vaccines can cause allergic reactions. Cats However, these adverse effects should subside after 24 to 48 hours. Cats Check the requirements in your state using this table compiled by the American Veterinary Medical Association. Cat Vaccinations But theycould still catch airborne germs that might come in through a window or door. This should go away on its own in 2-3 days as the symptoms ease. It only means that your cat is experiencing these symptoms due to the interaction between his body and the vaccine. The disease can negatively impact your cats immune system or cause anemia or cancer. 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. 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. This happens because the immune response generated by a vaccine can make cats feel tired, achy, and generally unwell. Inflammatory / immune diseasesAbnormal immune responses and inflammation can make cats feel unwell and damage the body. However, it is normal for cats to feel ill for a few hours or days after vaccination. Vaccinating your cat In comparison, healthy kittens are never lethargic. While the disease usually starts with decreased energy and low appetite, it progresses to vomiting and diarrhea. I cant see how that can be rabies. Your veterinarian can assess your cats risk of FeLV infection and decide on an appropriate vaccination schedule. WebDecreased appetite and activity. Featured image: iStock.com/GoodLifeStudio. In the early stages the affected cat may suffer from lethargy and pain in the affected area. To help your pet stay healthy, limit their contact with infected animals and to environments where diseases may be more common. It is possible that it has little energy to walk to the bowl after vaccination. It should start to disappear within a couple weeks. American Veterinary Medical Foundation (AVMF), What to expect after your pet's vaccination, Discomfort and local swelling at the vaccination site, Sneezing, mild coughing, "snotty nose" or other respiratory signs may occur 2-5 days after your pet receives an intranasal vaccine, Swelling of the muzzle and around the face, neck, or eyes. Press Enter / Return to begin your search. Some cats are temporarily different or never quite the same after vaccination. The FVCRP vaccine is most likely to cause limping because lameness is a symptom of feline calicivirus. WebSome cats will develop a mild reaction that may last for a few days to a week after the vaccination. Also, many local and state governments have laws about vaccines like rabies. Goodness, this sounds like a very complicated case. A lethargic cat can look a lot like a tired cat, but there is an important difference. More serious, but less common side effects, such as allergic reactions, may occur within minutes to hours after vaccination. Previously, many vets chose to administer shots to the neck. Cat Acting Strange After Vaccination WebLow energy (lethargy) Eating less Sleeping more Fever (high temperature) Mild swelling around the vaccine site that disappears in two - six weeks. Loss of appetite is a common side effect of vaccination in cats. One type of cancer in cats, for example, is known to be caused by vaccinations. In addition, vaccines can cause allergic reactions. Cat Vaccinations 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). Some pet owners report a temporary change in the behavior or personality of the cat after vaccination. Rare vaccine side effects In very rare circumstances, a vaccine can cause a severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis).