Vaccinations

Starting at 6-8 weeks of age, your new pet will require 3 vaccinations at 3 to 4 week intervals. This will provide them with the

protection they need for the year ahead. In the following years, your Veterinarian will provide a customized vaccine schedule

for your pet.

VACCINES

What is a vaccine?

The word vaccine comes from the discovery of an English country doctor, Dr. Edward Jenner. Dr. Jenner discovered that people

given a preparation or vaccine of material from the common cattle disease, cowpox or vaccinia, developed only a mild skin

infection, but when those vaccinated individuals were exposed to the deadly smallpox virus (a virus closely related to cowpox)

they remained healthy. They were immune. More than one hundred years after Jenner’s findings, the great French scientist

Louis Pasteur and his colleagues found that they could protect animals and people against a variety of diseases including

rabies by administering injections of the infectious microorganism in an altered form. The two main alterations of these

microorganisms were “inactivated vaccines” using killed virus or “attenuated vaccines” using still living virus but changed into

a harmless form.

What is “immunity”?

Immunity is a complex series of defense mechanisms by which an animal is able to resist an infection or, minimally, resist

disease and the harmful consequences of the infection. The main components of these defenses are the white blood cells,

especially lymphocytes and their chemical products, antibodies and cytokines such as interferon. All infectious disease

organisms (viruses, bacteria, protozoa, fungi, etc.) have specific components called antigens. These antigens cause

lymphocytes to respond in a specific way such that each antigen stimulates the production of a mirror-image antibody as well

as non-antibody responses called cellular immunity. Immunity has memory, so that a subsequent exposure to the same antigen

results in a much more rapid response. This rapid "boost” of immunity usually stops the new infection before it can cause

illness. The animal is then said to be "immune" against this infection. Such immune memory can fade with time, sometimes

quite rapidly, depending on the specific antigen-antibody relationship.

Immunity is not absolute. Immunity can sometimes be overcome when there is an overwhelming exposure to a high dose of a

virulent or particularly harmful strain of the microorganism or when the animal is unduly stressed or its immune system is

otherwise depressed known as immunosuppression by other infections or certain drugs.

What is a modified-live vaccine?

In a modified-live or live-attenuated vaccine the causative organism (virus, bacterium, etc.) has been altered so that it is no

longer harmful or virulent but upon injection or other administration it will stimulate protective immunity.

What is a killed vaccine?

The organism has been killed or inactivated to render it harmless. Killed vaccines often need a helper or adjuvant included in

the vaccine to stimulate a longer-lasting immune response.

Which is better: a live or killed vaccine?

Both have advantages and disadvantages. Your veterinarian takes many circumstances into account in making the choice.

Why are vaccines administered by injection?

Some vaccines are given locally, for example into the nose, but most require injection so that the maximum take-up of vaccine

by the white cells and stimulation of the immune system is achieved. Some vaccines are injected subcutaneously or just under

the skin, others are injected into the muscles or intramuscularly. Injections look easy but there are a number of precautions a

veterinarian is taking.

Which vaccines are needed in dogs?

Depending on your locality some infections may be more or less likely. Your veterinarian will assess the relative risks based on

your circumstances and advise you accordingly. The range of vaccines available includes: rabies, distemper, adenovirus/

infectious canine hepatitis, parvovirus, leptospirosis, parainfluenza, coronavirus, Lyme disease, and Bordetella bronchiseptica

(see Kennel Cough). For details on these diseases see the specific topic. These vaccines are often available in combinations

given in one dose. These combination vaccines are convenient and avoid extra injections for your dog, but sometimes

separation of vaccines is advisable. Your veterinarian will advise you on the appropriate vaccines for your pet based on your

dog’s specific lifestyle requirements.

“Core” Vaccines – Recommended for all puppies and dogs by the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) Canine

Vaccine Task Force

Canine distemper virus

Canine parvovirus

Canine adenovirus-2

Rabies virus

“Non-Core” Vaccines – Recommended for puppies and dogs in special circumstances, dependent on the exposure risk of an

individual dog by the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) Canine Vaccine Task Force

Distemper-measles virus

Leptospira spp.

Borrelia burgdorferi or Lyme disease

Canine parainfluenza virus

Bordetella bronchiseptica or “Kennel Cough”

What is maternal immunity?

Newborn animals have not yet had a chance to make their own immunity so they need protection against infections present in

their environment. They receive this immunity from their mother, partly across the placenta while in the uterus with most of

the maternal antibody transferred to them in the first milk or colostrum. Maternal immunity is only temporary. It declines

steadily over the first few weeks of life and is largely gone by twelve weeks. The rate of decline is variable depending on many

factors.

Why is more than one dose of vaccine given to pups?

There are two reasons. First, without complicated testing it is impossible to know when a pup has lost the immunity it gets

from its mother called maternal immunity. An early decline in a puppy’s maternal antibody can leave it susceptible to infection

at a very young age but a strong maternal immunity can actually interfere with early vaccination (see Vaccination Failure).

Second, particularly with killed vaccines, the first dose is a “priming” dose, and the second dose is needed to boost the

response to a higher, longer-lasting level of immunity.

Why does my dog need to be revaccinated?

In most properly vaccinated dogs, the immunity should last more than a year, and often several years. However, immunity

does decline with time and this decline rate varies with individuals. To maintain the best immunity in a reasonable way,

revaccinations have proven very successful. Because improvements are continuously made in the vaccines we use, some do

not need to be given so often, depending on individual circumstances of the pet. Most dogs with low-risk lifestyles will be

vaccinated every three years with the “core” vaccines and then as needed for any “non-core” vaccines. Your veterinarian will

discuss the need and frequency of booster vaccinations for your dog based on your pet’s needs and lifestyle.

How long does it take for a vaccine to produce immunity?

Within a few hours of vaccination the earliest phases of the immune response are being stimulated. It usually requires ten to

fourteen days before a reasonable level of protection is established. Killed vaccines may not provide adequate protection until

after the second dose. Also in young puppies maternal antibody may hinder protection until later in the vaccine series.

Therefore it is advisable to keep a recently vaccinated pup away from dogs or pups of unknown vaccination history until it has

finished its vaccination course.

What happens if my dog is sick when vaccinated?

The veterinary check-up prior to vaccination and sometimes blood tests pre-vaccination help prevent this situation. In most

cases it would not have disastrous consequences, but it is important that an animal is healthy when vaccinated, to ensure

proper development of immunity.

Will vaccination make my dog sick?

It is not unusual to detect some lethargy in the day or so after vaccination. In the case of killed vaccines containing an adjuvant,

some thickening or lump formation may occur at the vaccination site. If this is painful or persists for more than a week or so

with no decrease in size, consult your veterinarian. A few dogs will develop more severe reactions that are forms of

hypersensitivity (allergy). These will usually occur within minutes but may be delayed for a few hours. The dog may have

difficulty breathing, salivate, vomit, and have diarrhea. In these situations consult your veterinarian immediately.

Do vaccines provide 100% protection?

Vaccines have been highly successful in protecting the majority of dogs against diseases such as distemper that were once

common but now rare, but there are situations in which the immunity conferred by a vaccine may be overcome and a

vaccinated dog may still develop disease. In such cases the disease is generally milder than it would have been had the dog not

been vaccinated. Some causes for apparent “vaccine failure” are:

Maternally derived antibodies – As mentioned above, when a puppy is born and after it suckles its mother, it acquires a

proportion of any antibodies that the mother has. So a well-vaccinated female will confer antibodies to the diseases she has

been vaccinated against and any others she has acquired naturally to her puppies. Such antibodies protect the pup against

those diseases for the first two or three months of its life, the most critical period of its life. However during this same period

the maternally derived antibodies can block the effects of vaccination of the pup. This blocking effect decreases as the

maternal antibody gradually disappears over those two to three months. A point in time is reached when vaccination can be

successfully given. Unfortunately this point varies between pups, mainly because the amount of maternal antibodies that each

pup receives is variable. This is part of the reason that two vaccinations are usually given, two to four weeks apart, in the

puppy vaccination program. Maternal antibody interference has been a particular problem with canine parvovirus

vaccination.

Incomplete immune response – There is variation between dogs in their immune system. Some respond less well to

vaccination, so immunity may be incomplete or shorter-lived than normal. Certain breeds and genetic lines have a tendency

for such problems.

Declining immunity – Without booster vaccinations, or without natural boosting of immunity by sporadic exposure to the

infectious agent in nature, immunity to the specific organism declines over time, particularly in older age. There may come a

time when if there is a particularly heavy dose of the organism from the environment the declining immunity may be

insufficient and overwhelmed, disease resulting.

Immune suppression – Certain infections and some drugs, such as anti-cancer drugs, may cause a suppression of the immune

system so that an otherwise well-vaccinated dog becomes susceptible to infection and disease if exposed.

New strains of organism – Some infectious agents exist in different strains or new strains evolve, that are not directly

covered by the vaccines given. There may be some ‘cross-protection’ but it may not be complete.

The above are not the only reasons for vaccination “failure” but they are the most likely explanations.

If you feel your dog has contracted an infection for which it has been vaccinated then let your veterinarian know so tests can

be undertaken to try and establish why vaccination has failed to be protective.

VACCINATIONS IN CATS

Recent advances in veterinary medical science have resulted in an increase in the number and type of vaccines that are

available for use in cats, and improvements are continuously being made in their safety and efficacy. Some vaccines are more

or less routinely advocated for all cats (‘core’ vaccines) whereas others are used more selectively according to circumstances.

However, in all cases the selection of the correct vaccination program for each individual cat, including the frequency of

repeat, or booster, vaccinations, requires professional advice.

Currently cats can be vaccinated against several different diseases:          

“Core” Vaccines, as recommended by the American Association of Feline Practitioners (AAFP) for all kittens and cats:

1. Feline panleukopenia, FPV or FPL (also called feline infectious enteritis) caused by FPL virus or feline parvovirus

2. Feline viral rhinotracheitis, FVR caused by FVR virus, also known as herpes virus type 1, FHV-1

3. Feline caliciviral disease caused by various strains of Feline caliciviruses, FCV

4. Rabies caused by Rabies virus

“Non-core” or discretionary vaccines, recommended for kittens and cats with realistic risk of exposure to specific diseases:

1. Feline chlamydial infection

2. Feline leukemia disease complex caused by Feline leukemia virus, FeLV

3. Feline Infectious Peritonitis (FIP) caused by FIP virus or Feline Coronavirus

4. Giardiasis caused by the protozoal parasite Giardia

5. Bordetellosis caused by the bacterium Bordetella bronchiseptica

6. Ringworm

7. Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV)

How do vaccines work?

Vaccines work by stimulating the body's defense mechanisms or immune system to produce antibodies to a particular

microorganism or microorganisms such as a virus, bacteria, or other infectious organism. The animal’s immune system is then

prepared to react to a future infection with that microorganism(s). The reaction will either prevent infection or lessen the

severity of infection and promote rapid recovery. Thus, vaccination mimics or simulates the protection or immunity that a pet

has once it has recovered from natural infection with a particular infectious agent.

The immune system is complex, involving interaction of various cells and tissues and organs in an animal. The main cells

involved in an immune reaction are the white blood cells and the main tissues are the lymphoid tissues such as the lymph

nodes.

One of the most important functions of the immune system is the production of specific protein molecules called antibodies. A

specific microorganism, such as Feline Panleukopenia Virus, has components called antigens that induce the immune system

to produce antibody that specifically binds and neutralizes that organism and no other.

Antibodies work together with other white blood cells such as lymphocytes that are able to identify and kill cells that have

become infected by the microorganism. The activity of lymphocytes and other immune system cells is called cell-mediated

immunity.

 After vaccination, just as after recovery from natural infection, the body 'remembers' the particular antigens so that when

they are encountered again it can mount a rapid and strong immune response preventing the cat from developing the disease.

The duration of this response varies with the disease, the type of vaccine and other variables. The likely duration will

determine the recommended revaccination date.

It is important to realize that most vaccines work by preventing your cat from becoming ill during a subsequent exposure to

specific disease-causing organisms, but vaccination may not prevent the cat from becoming infected. In such cases the cat,

while itself protected against disease, may shed the organism for a period of time after exposure and be capable of infecting

other susceptible animals. This is not a major consideration in the pet cat but may be important in the breeding colony.

What is the difference between the various types of vaccine?

Three major types of vaccine are produced for use in cats.

1. Modified live vaccines - these vaccines contain live organisms that are weakened (attenuated) or genetically

modified so that they will not produce disease but will multiply in the cat's body. Live vaccines are generally

considered to cause a stronger, longer lasting immunity than inactivated vaccines. It is not advisable to use

modified live vaccines in pregnant queens or cats whose immune system is not working properly (cats infected by

feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV), etc.).

2. Killed (inactivated) vaccines - these vaccines are prepared using fully virulent organisms or genetically modified

organisms that have been killed by various treatments. Because, on their own, they do not give as high a level of

protection as the live, replicating type of vaccine, killed vaccines may have an ‘adjuvant’ added to enhance immune

stimulation.

3. Subunit vaccines – these are most commonly what are called recombinant-DNA vaccines. These are vaccines in

which the infectious organism has been broken apart and only certain parts are included in the vaccine. In some

cases this is achieved by using genetic engineering techniques prior to the fragmentation.

Also vaccines come in various combinations, so that protection against more than one disease is achieved in a single injection

or administration. Some vaccines are given by drops into the nose rather than by injection. Your veterinarian will advise you

on the most appropriate vaccines for your cat.

When should my kitten be vaccinated?

Generally kittens are vaccinated for the first time at between six and eight weeks of age and a second dose is given at ten to

twelve weeks. A kitten will not be fully protected until seven to ten days after the second vaccination. Under specific

circumstances your veterinarian may advise an alternative regime.

How often should booster vaccinations be given?

Booster vaccination has generally been carried out yearly, but as vaccines and knowledge change, recommendations for

frequency of boosters evolve. The appropriate interval for boosters will vary with individual circumstances. Your veterinarian

will discuss this with you. All cats should be examined and appropriate vaccines administered regularly. Senior cats are

particularly susceptible to these infections as they grow old and their immune system becomes less efficient.

Many adult cats that have been vaccinated as kittens will be vaccinated every one to three years based on lifestyle risk

assessment. That is, if your cat is at higher risk for realistic exposure to a disease, the frequency of vaccination may be

increased. It is important to thoroughly discuss your cat’s lifestyle with your veterinarian and determine the appropriate

vaccinations and vaccination schedule for your cat.

The AAFP vaccination guidelines recommend that low-risk adult cats be vaccinated every three years for the “core” vaccines

and then as determined by your veterinarian for any “non-core” vaccinations. It is important to note that feline leukemia virus

(FeLV) vaccine is recommended by some AAFP members to be a “core” vaccine while other experts classify it as a “non-core”

vaccine. Your veterinarian is the ultimate authority on  how your cat is vaccinated

Will vaccination always protect my cat?

Vaccination will protect the vast majority of cats but under some circumstance vaccine breakdowns will occur. Reasons for

such breakdowns or apparent ‘vaccine failure’ include:

Variations between different strains of viruses – This is particularly a problem for example with FCV infections, where, like

the “common cold” in people, there are a large number of different strains. Available vaccines may only partially cross-protect

against some of these strains.

Maternally derived antibodies – When a kitten is born and after it suckles its mother, it is acquires a proportion of

antibodies from the mother. A well vaccinated queen cat will pass on some antibodies to the diseases she has been vaccinated

against, and any others she has acquired naturally. Such antibodies protect the kitten against those diseases for the first two or

three months of life, arguably the most critical period. However, during this same period, the maternally-derived antibodies

can block the effects of vaccination of the kitten. This blocking effect decreases as the maternal antibodies gradually disappear

over those two to three months. A point in time is reached when vaccination can be successfully given. Unfortunately, this

point varies between kittens, mainly because the amount of maternal antibodies that each kitten receives is variable. This is

part of the reason that vaccinations are usually given two to four weeks apart in the kitten vaccination program.

The cat was stressed or not completely healthy at the time of vaccination – Stress can prevent a good response to

vaccination. For this reason it is better to let a kitten settle into its new home for five to seven days before a vaccination is

given.  A physical examination is always given before vaccinating to help ensure the cat is healthy at that time.

The cat has been exposed to an excessive challenge dose of virus or bacteria in its environment and this has been sufficient

to overwhelm the immunity.

The immune system of the cat is under-performing or incompetent because of some other disease, or complications

associated with advanced age.

These are not the only reasons for vaccination failure but they are the most common.

If you feel your cat has contracted an infection for which it has been vaccinated then let your veterinarian know so tests can be

undertaken to try and establish why vaccination has failed to be protective.

What are the risks of vaccination?

There are very few risks to vaccination. Your veterinarian will be able to advise you on specific details concerning your pet.

You 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 twenty-four to forty-eight hours. A 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. If these signs occur, let your veterinarian

know immediately. A rare form of soft tissue sarcoma has been associated with a reaction to vaccine or vaccine components in

a very small number of cats. This association is controversial, and studies are in progress to investigate whether the

association is real. The benefits of vaccination greatly outweigh these small risks in most situations.

Which are the most important vaccinations to have?

This is a difficult question and will depend on individual circumstances, including the area you live in and the lifestyle of your

cat. As mentioned before, certain vaccines are more routinely given and are regarded as “core” vaccines. Others may or may

not be advised depending on the particular situation of your cat. Your veterinarian will be able to advise you of the most

appropriate vaccination schedule for your cat.

Feline panleukopenia infection – FPV or FPV

This is an uncommon disease today because of widespread vaccination, but the risk remains widespread. When disease occurs

it is a severe and often fatal gastroenteritis, with profound depression, dehydration and collapse. It is very contagious to other

cats. Vaccination provides a high level of long lasting protection.

Feline respiratory virus infection

Disease is caused by FVR virus (FHV-1) or the caliciviruses (FCV) - sometimes simultaneously. The syndrome is commonly

termed Upper Respiratory Infection (URI) or sometimes, erroneously, “Cat Flu”. While not usually very serious, except in

young kittens, it is a very common infection in unvaccinated cats and can cause long-term problems. Vaccination is only

moderately effective as solid immunity to these viruses is not long term, and may be overcome by a high dose of virus in the

immediate environment. Vaccination does significantly reduce the severity and duration of URI.

Feline chlamydial infection

This tends to be a particular problem in colony cats or in certain geographical locations. Chlamydiosis is a bacterial infection

causing a painful inflammation and swelling of the conjunctiva or the membrane around the eye as well as upper respiratory

infections.  It has also been associated with infertility in queens. Infection in colonies of cats can

last for long periods because protection against re-infection (immunity) is relatively short lived. Vaccination can help to

prevent infection becoming established in a colony and can be used in conjunction with treatment where infection is already

present.

Feline leukemia virus (FeLV) infection

This virus is widespread and infection of outdoor cats or cats in infected catteries is common. The vast majority of persistently

infected cats will die either from tumors or as a consequence of the immunosuppression caused by the viral infection. Current

vaccines provide a good level of protection and do not interfere with routine testing for the virus in breeding colonies. Because

the virus tends to take many months before it causes disease, infected cats can appear completely normal and healthy. For this

reason your veterinarian may suggest your cat have a blood test to make sure it is not infected before vaccination. Despite

vaccination, a few cats will still become infected with the virus.

Feline Infectious Peritonitis (FIP)

FIP is caused by a coronavirus.  Infection with the causative or related viruses is common, but the disease is uncommon,

although cases occur from time to time almost everywhere.  We do not understand why some infections lead to fatal disease

whereas the majority of infections cause only minor illness. Vaccines are advised in some high-risk cases. Discuss usage with

your veterinarian.

Rabies

This is such an important disease because of the almost 100% fatality rate of cases once symptoms occur, and because of its

potential transmission to people by bites from infected animals. Rabies vaccination is an essential part of the vaccination

program for all cats. Your veterinarian will discuss the frequency of booster vaccinations needed for your cat.

Q & A - Pet Vaccinations

1. Are vaccinations really necessary?

Yes. Vaccinations help protect your pet from a number of potentially serious and even fatal diseases, such as

Rabies. Not only that, vaccinations cost considerably less than the treatments available for the diseases pets are

normally vaccinated against. Every pet should be vaccinated - even indoor dogs and cats can be exposed to a rabid

bat.

2. How do vaccinations work?

Vaccines contain viruses or bacteria that have been modified so that they will not cause disease. When an animal is

vaccinated, it stimulates two parts of the animal's immune system. One is the production of antibodies, the other is

the stimulation of cell mediated immunity, which, in combination, mount a response against the bacteria or virus

in question. If the dog or cat is later exposed to that disease, the two parts of the immune system will react quickly

to destroy the disease-causing agent.

3. Why does my pet need regular booster vaccinations for the same disease?

The protection provided by a vaccine gradually declines over time. Your pet needs regular "booster" vaccinations

to ensure ongoing immunity from disease.

4. Do I need to get my pet vaccinated every year?

This is a topic which is currently under investigation within veterinary medicine. Unfortunately, the duration of

immunity for each vaccine is not currently known.

While pet owners can have blood tests done on their pets to assess the pet's antibody level, this does not test the

level of immunity currently provided by the pet's cell mediated immune system. Until more is known about the

duration of immunity, the frequency and type of vaccines administered will vary. Talk to your veterinarian about

the risk of viral and bacterial diseases in your area, and the need for one, two or three year vaccines.

When considering what is best for you pet, please remember that pets age faster than people. Pets can't talk, and

because "survival of the fittest" meant that only the healthy and strong survived in the wild, animals will try to

hide any evidence of illness as long as possible. This means that there may not be any outward signs that your pet

is ill until the disease is quite advanced.

That's why, in addition to having regular vaccinations, it is extremely important that your pet has an annual

physical examination. By performing a yearly physical examination, your veterinarian can detect early signs of

organ dysfunction and illness. With early diagnosis comes early treatment. Early treatment in turn leads to an

increased life span and an improved quality of life for your pet.

5. What diseases are vaccines available for?

Vaccines available for dogs include:

o Rabies

o Distemper

o Hepatitis

o Parainfluenza

o Parvo virus

o Leptospirosis

o Lyme Disease

o Corona virus

o Bordetella

o Giardia

Vaccines available for cats include:

o Rabies

o Panleukopenia

o Feline calicivirus

o Feline rhinotracheitis

o Feline leukemia

o Ringworm

o Chlamydia

o Feline infectious peritonitis

o Bordatella

o FIV

o Giardia

Speak with your veterinarian about which of these vaccines are necessary for your pet(s).

6. Are vaccinations 100% safe and effective?

Although your veterinarian cannot guarantee that a vaccine will fully protect an animal against a given disease,

vaccinations have proven to be the simplest, safest and most effective means of preventing a number of diseases in

pets.

It is important to administer vaccines only to healthy animals. If the animal is already suffering from an illness, or

is receiving certain drugs, its immune system may not be able to respond to the vaccine. For that reason, prior to

vaccinating your pet, your veterinarian will ask you about your pet's medical history and perform a complete

physical examination.

Puppies and kittens require a series of vaccinations during their first four months of life. Nursing pups and kittens

receive antibodies from their mother's milk (maternal antibodies) which protect them from disease during the

first months of life. These same antibodies can prevent a vaccine from being totally effective. Consequently, as

maternal antibodies decrease, your veterinarian will give your pet a series of vaccines spread over a period of 6 to

16 weeks of age, to provide your pet with the best possible protection.

It is very important that you follow the vaccination schedule provided by your veterinarian. Missing a vaccine

booster or being more than a few days late could put your pet at risk of contracting disease.

Puppies and kittens should not be exposed to unvaccinated dogs and cats, sick dogs and cats, or places where dogs

and cats roam (public parks etc.) until they have completed their puppy or kitten series of vaccinations.

Despite your veterinarian's efforts to design a safe vaccination protocol for every pet, vaccine reactions can and do

occur. Thankfully, they are not common. Like a drug, a vaccine is capable of causing an adverse reaction. Some of

these reactions are mild (some discomfort at the injection site, lethargy or loss of appetite for a day or so). Some of

these reactions are more severe (allergic reaction, immunologic reactions). If your pet has reacted to a vaccine in

the past, inform your veterinarian.

7. I've heard that some vaccinations cause cancer in cats. Is this true?

Vaccination-induced sarcomas (a form of cancer) in cats are rare. They occur most commonly with Rabies and

Feline Leukemia vaccinations. It is important for you and your veterinarian to decide if the risk of your cat being

exposed to these diseases is greater than the potential risk of developing a vaccine-induced sarcoma. If the

benefits of vaccination outweigh the risk of vaccination, then the vaccination should be given. If your cat develops

a lump at the injection site, call your veterinarian.

Vaccinations for Dogs

Canine Distemper

Distemper is a serious viral disease affecting primarily young, unvaccinated dogs. Clinical signs may include a yellowish or

greenish discharge from the eyes or nose, coughing, difficulty breathing, increased body temperature, weight loss, vomiting,

diarrhea, loss of appetite, nervous system disorder (twitching of a limb, seizures, etc.), and hardening of the foot pads.

Distemper is a highly contagious disease. All body excretions and secretions (discharges from the eyes or nose, vomitus,

diarrhea, urine) may carry the infection. The virus can also be carried by air currents, and on inanimate objects such as food

bowls.

Prevention of this disease is extremely important, as distemper is often fatal. Even if a dog survives the disease, distemper can

permanently damage the dog's nervous system, sense of smell, sight and sound. Vaccination has been shown to prevent the

disease.

Canine Parvovirus

Parvovirus is a serious disease affecting primarily young dogs (6 weeks to 6 months of age) although any age can be affected.

The breeds at highest risk include the Rottweiler, Doberman Pinscher, and German Shepherd.

Parvovirus is a hardy virus, able to withstand extreme temperature changes, and exposure to most disinfectants. Dogs contract

Parvovirus through exposure to infected dogs or infected stools.

Parvovirus attacks the gastrointestinal tract, causing affected dogs to lose their appetite, become lethargic and show evidence

of vomiting, diarrhea or both. The diarrhea is often bloody and has a foul odour (that of digested blood). Some dogs develop

fevers. Left untreated, Parvovirus can be fatal.

This disease is very serious and can be very expensive to treat. Vaccination against this highly contagious viral disease has

proven to be very successful in preventing this disease (or lessening its severity).

Canine Kennel Cough

Clinical signs of kennel cough include a dry, hacking cough and, in some dogs, nasal discharge, loss of appetite and difficulty

breathing.

Kennel cough is highly contagious and is spread through sneezing, coughing and contact with infected nasal secretions. Kennel

cough is most commonly transmitted when dogs are put in close proximity to one another, for example, at dog shows, in

kennels, etc. In most cases, kennel cough lasts 7 to 10 days and dogs recover fully from it. In some cases, antibiotics are

necessary.

If your dog is on the show circuit or spends time in a boarding facility, vaccination may be recommended. Speak to your

veterinarian about your dog's risk of exposure and need for this vaccine.

Infectious Canine Hepatitis

Hepatitis is a viral disease that is most common in young, unvaccinated dogs (9-12 weeks). Clinical signs may include

respiratory tract abnormalities (discharge from the nose or eyes, coughing) or evidence of liver and/or kidney disease

(jaundice, loss of appetite, vomiting, change in drinking and urinating behaviour). Occasionally, an affected dog develops a

"blue eye" (corneal edema).

Hepatitis is spread by contact with urine from an infected dog. Prevention by vaccination is the key as canine hepatitis is often

fatal. Infectious canine hepatitis is not contagious to people.

Giardia

Vaccination is considered optional by most veterinarians. Giardia is a parasite that can cause chronic gastrointestinal upset

(primarily diarrhea) in dogs and cats. This parasite can spread to humans. The vaccine for Giardia is new. Ask your

veterinarian about the incidence of this disease in your area, and whether you need to have your pet vaccinated against this

disease.

Rabies

Rabies is a viral disease that attacks the central nervous system of all warm blooded animals, including humans. Rabies is

transmitted by saliva, which is usually transferred by a bite from an infected animal. The disease is frequently found in wild

animals such as skunks, foxes, raccoons and bats.

Once infected, the disease is fatal. Prior to death, clinical signs may include a change in behaviour (e.g. increased

aggressiveness or increased shyness), dilation of the pupils, excess salivation, snapping at the air, a shifting gait, and facial

twitching.

As the virus can be transmitted to humans, no stray dog, cat or wild animal should ever be approached. Wild animals should

never be kept as pets. Your pet should be kept on its own property or leashed when off its property. To help prevent raccoon

rabies, it is recommended that you cap chimneys, close up any holes in attics or outbuildings, and make sure that stored

garbage does not act as a food source.

Vaccination is important to safeguard your dog from rabies. Some veterinarians recommend vaccinating every year, while

others recommend a three-year vaccine. Talk to your veterinarian about the degree of risk for Rabies in your area, and about

which vaccine will provide your pet with the protection it requires.

Canine Leptospirosis

Leptospirosis is a disease that impairs kidney function and may cause kidney failure. Liver disease is also common. Clinical

signs may include loss of appetite, lethargy, jaundice, vomiting, diarrhea, and seizures.

There are a number of different types of leptospira that may cause the disease. Wild and domestic animals (cattle, pigs, dogs)

may act as reservoirs for infection. The disease is transmitted by contact with the urine of infected animals. Stagnant or slow-

moving water may provide a suitable habitat for the organism to thrive.

Canine Corona Virus

Canine corona virus infects one of the layers of the intestinal tract and may lead to vomiting and diarrhea. Infected dogs can

shed the virus to other dogs. The overall prevalence of corona virus is thought to be low, and most infections are mild and self-

limiting. Vaccination against this virus is available, but not all veterinarians recommend it. Speak to your veterinarian about

your dog's risk for developing this viral disease.

Lyme Disease

Lyme disease is caused by a spirochete (Borrelia burgdorferi) and spread by ticks. It is a serious disease in people. Clinical

signs in dogs, if they occur, are thought to include lameness, joint swelling, fever, loss of appetite and lethargy. The heart, brain

and kidney may also be affected. Dogs do not generally show the classic red lesion that a human exhibits at the site of a tick

bite.

The diagnosis of Lyme disease is not black and white. If the disease is suspected, your veterinarian may request a blood test to

detect antibodies to Borrelia. If this test is positive and your dog has clinical signs suggestive of Lyme disease and a history of

travel to a high risk area, antibiotics may be recommended.

Depending on your geographical location, your veterinarian may recommend vaccinating your dog against Lyme disease.  To

assist in the prevention of Lyme disease, use flea and tick sprays, and remove any ticks from the animal promptly, if found. The

risk of tick exposure can be reduced by keeping your dog on a leash, on trails, and out of woodlands and fields. Brushing the

pet's coat as soon as the walk is complete is important.

Vaccinations for Cats

Feline Respiratory Disease (Feline rhinotracheitis, feline calicivirus, chlamydia and bordetella)

Feline rhinotracheitis (FVR) and feline calicivirus (FCV) are the two main causes of upper respiratory tract infections in cats.

Although cats of any age can be infected, the young appear to be at greater risk. Clinical signs of infection include sneezing,

nasal discharge and discharge from the eyes. Some cats with FVR cough, and some develop a severe eye condition called

ulcerative keratitis. Cats with FCV can develop ulcers in the mouth, pneumonia, diarrhea and joint disease. Although most cats

recover within 2 to 4 weeks, it is quite common for cats to become chronic carriers of these viruses, putting other cats at risk.

Because these viruses are common in many areas, vaccination is highly recommended.

Chlamydia psittici is a parasite that is thought to be responsible for some upper respiratory tract infections in cats. It can lead

to a severe form of lung disease if left untreated. Chlamydia more commonly causes a chronic conjunctivitis in cats. Outbreaks

of Chlamydia are common when cats are housed together. Most veterinarians consider this an optional vaccination depending

on your cat's risk of exposure.

Feline bordetella is similar to canine bordetella and can result in signs of upper respiratory tract disease in cats.  It can also

cause a cat to cough.  Vaccination is considered optional.

Feline Panleukopenia

Feline panleukopenia is a hardy virus, able to survive up to a year in the environment. Clinical signs include fever, loss of

appetite, vomiting and diarrhea. It most often occurs in unvaccinated 3 to 5 month old kittens. If the virus attacks an unborn

fetus, it may cause early death or cerebellar hypoplasia ("spastic kitten"). Most older cats exposed to this virus do not show

clinical signs. An infected cat may be infertile. A cat may also abort her litter if infected during pregnancy.

This virus is spread via contact with an infected kitten or by contaminated premises, food or water bowls. Most veterinarians

consider vaccination for panleukopenia mandatory. Thanks to vaccination, this disease is now uncommon.

Rabies

Rabies is a viral disease that attacks the central nervous system of all warm blooded animals, including humans. Rabies is

transmitted by saliva, which is usually transferred by a bite from an infected animal. The virus can also be transmitted via air

(bat caves) and tissue (corneal transplants). The disease is frequently found in wild animals such as skunks, foxes, raccoons

and bats.

Once infected, the disease is fatal. Prior to death, clinical signs may include a change in behaviour (e.g. increased

aggressiveness or increased shyness), dilation of the pupils, excess salivation, snapping at the air, a shifting gait, and facial

twitching.

As the virus can be transmitted to humans, no stray dog, cat or any wild animal should ever be approached. Wild animals,

including raccoons, should never be kept as pets. The family pet should be kept on its own property or be leashed when off its

property. To help prevent raccoon rabies, it is recommended that you cap chimneys, close up any holes in attics or

outbuildings, and make sure that stored garbage does not act as a food source.

Vaccination is important in safeguarding your cat from infection with this virus. Some veterinarians recommend vaccinating

every year, while others recommend a three-year vaccine. Talk to your veterinarian about the degree of risk for Rabies in your

area, and about which vaccination protocol will provide your pet with the protection it requires.

Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV)

Feline leukemia virus is capable of causing a number of diseases in cats. Lymphoma (lymphosarcoma) is the most common

form of cancer caused by this virus. Although a number of forms of this cancer are possible, the most common ones involve the

intestines or the chest. Clinical signs may include vomiting, diarrhea and weight loss (if the intestines are involved) or

breathing difficulties (if the chest is involved). Any organ in the body can be affected.

Feline leukemia virus can also cause anemia, and can make a cat more susceptible to other viral and bacterial diseases. Any cat

with a history of fever of undetermined origin, or an illness that comes and goes, should be tested for this virus.

The incidence of FeLV is highest in multi-cat households (lots of contact between cats) as the virus is spread via saliva and

other body secretions (tears, blood, urine). Cats that mutually groom, share food and water bowls, litter pans, etc. are at higher

risk. "Social" outdoor cats that meet and greet other cats, mutually groom or fight are also at risk.

A blood test is available to test for infection with this virus. Not all "positive" cats will become sick with the disease. Some cats

are able to mount a good immune response and overcome the virus. Others are not and will develop FeLV associated disease

or cancer, usually within 3 years.

If your cat tests positive for FeLV, it is important that your cat not roam free, as the virus is highly contagious. Such a cat is

prone to developing serious complications from other viral or bacterial diseases, so any time the cat does not appear well (has

a fever, doesn't eat), you should see your veterinarian.

If a cat in your household dies of Feline Leukemia, the household should be thoroughly disinfected (especially the litter boxes,

food and water bowls, bedding, toys). It is best to wait at least one month before introducing another cat to the household.

Many cats are at high risk for exposure to this virus. If you own more than one cat, if you have a cat that roams outdoors or is

very sociable and likely to contact other cats, or if the background of your cat is unknown (adopted from the shelter, etc.)

speak to your veterinarian about testing your cat's blood for this virus. Your veterinarian can help you assess the need for

vaccinating your cat(s) against FeLV.

Feline Infectious Peritonitis (FIP)

Feline infectious peritonitis is a Coronavirus. The disease is not common. It occurs most often in cats that are:

6 months to 2 years of age and in those that are older than 11 years of age

in multi-cat households (especially catteries)

in cats that are infected with Feline Leukemia or Feline Immunodeficiency Viruses

in cats whose immune system is compromised

The virus is spread by contact with an infected cat (feces, saliva, blood, urine). Prolonged exposure to an infected cat is usually

necessary for transmittal of the disease.

Clinical signs of FIP take time to develop. There are two forms of the disease. One, the wet form, results in fluid build-up in the

abdomen or chest. The other, the dry form, results in granulomas (lumps of inflammatory tissue) in multiple organs of the

body. Infected cats will often exhibit weight loss, fever and loss of appetite.

Although treatment is available to make infected cats more comfortable, the disease is inevitably fatal. An intranasal vaccine is

available. Please speak to your veterinarian about your cat's risk of exposure and the need for a vaccination.

FIV

FIV is capable of causing a number of diseases in cats in a similar manner to FeLeuk virus.  It is most common in male and free-

raoming cats.  Transmission is usually by a bite wound.

Giardia

Vaccination is considered optional by most veterinarians. Giardia is a parasite that can cause chronic gastrointestinal upset

(primarily diarrhea) in dogs and cats. This parasite can spread to humans. The vaccine for Giardia is new. Ask your

veterinarian about the incidence of this disease in your area, and whether you need to have your pet vaccinated against this

disease.

To learn more about pet vaccinations, talk to your Hermitage Veterinary Hospital Veterinarian.