Cat vaccinations are crucial for the health and well-being of your feline companion. At Caring Hands Veterinary Clinic in Philadelphia, we emphasize the importance of kitty vaccines and provide life-saving vaccinations to protect against serious diseases. Whether it's distemper or rabies, our clinic offers various types of vaccines to ensure your cat leads a long, healthy, and fulfilling life. Here's everything you need to know about our cat vaccinations. 

When to Visit the Vet for Vaccines

If you have a kitten, it's essential to schedule a wellness exam with your veterinarian, as we will discuss immunization options. Depending on your cat's age, lifestyle, and health, different vaccines may be recommended. Typically, kittens receive their first vaccinations between 6 and 8 weeks of age. However, if your cat is older, it's never too late to ensure his or her protection.

We recommend keeping your cat up-to-date on the following routine vaccinations:

- Rabies: Rabies is a fatal disease transmitted through the bite of an infected animal. All cats, regardless of age or lifestyle, should receive rabies shots.

- Distemper: Feline distemper, also known as feline panleukopenia virus, is highly contagious and can be deadly for kittens and adult cats alike. It is strongly recommended for all cats to receive a distemper shot.

- Feline Leukemia: Feline leukemia is a virus that can lead to cancer, anemia, and other serious diseases. If your cat goes outdoors or comes into contact with other cats, vaccinating against feline leukemia is highly recommended.

If your cat is strictly an indoor pet, you may not require all of these vaccinations. However, it's important to consult your veterinarian to determine the best course of action based on your cat's individual needs.

Potential Side Effects of Cat Vaccines

Mild side effects are common after vaccination, such as soreness, swelling, or tenderness at the injection site. Your cat may also experience slight lethargy for a few days following the shot. These side effects typically resolve within one or two days and are nothing to be concerned about.

Visit Caring Hands Veterinary Clinic in Philadelphia, PA

At Caring Hands Veterinary Clinic, we prioritize the safety and effectiveness of vaccines for our feline patients. We understand that getting your cat vaccinated can be stressful, but our friendly staff is dedicated to providing the best care possible. If you have any questions about cat vaccines or would like to schedule an appointment at our clinic in Philadelphia, please contact us at (215) 621-8959 .