What if my kitten misses a vaccination? - Ridgetowne Animal Clinic
If your kitten misses a vaccine, bring them in for another dose as soon as possible. Depending on where they are in their schedule, an additional dose may be needed three to four weeks later.
Are there any risks or side effects associated with kitten vaccines? - Ridgetowne Animal Clinic
Common side effects include tenderness at the injection site and mild lethargy or reduced appetite for about 24 hours. Uncommon side effects, which could indicate a vaccine reaction, include vomiting, diarrhea, facial swelling, or other unusual symptoms. These reactions are rare but can occur.
Why does my kitten need vaccines if they're only going to stay indoors? - Ridgetowne Animal Clinic
Yes, it is highly recommended to administer all vaccines for kittens, even if they are going to be indoor cats. Situations can change over time, and it is better to prevent potential viruses and bacterial infections if the kitten were to get outside or become an outdoor cat later in life.
What is the recommended vaccine schedule for kittens? - Ridgetowne Animal Clinic
The first vaccine should be given between six to eight weeks of age, followed by a booster three weeks later. Three weeks after that, the last set of boosters will be given, including the feline distemper, rabies vaccine, and the feline leukemia vaccine if needed.
How soon should my kitten be vaccinated? - Ridgetowne Animal Clinic
It is recommended to start vaccinations anywhere from six to eight weeks of age, or as soon as you adopt your kitten. If they have not had any prior vaccines, the first set will be given and then repeated about every three weeks.
What are non-core vaccines for kittens, and why does my kitten need them? - Ridgetowne Animal Clinic
For kittens, all vaccines are considered core vaccines. However, if your kitten is going to be in an area with a lot of other cats, a chlamydia vaccine may be added, which is part of the FVRCP. This vaccine is not carried at every clinic, but many shelters use it due to the high risk of exposure in those environments.
What are the core vaccine requirements for kittens? - Ridgetowne Animal Clinic
The core vaccines for kittens include the feline distemper vaccine (also known as FVRCP, which stands for respiratory complex vaccines), the feline leukemia vaccine for kittens or young adult cats under one year of age, and the rabies vaccine.
When should I get my kitten spayed or neutered? - Ridgetowne Animal Clinic
It's best to spay or neuter your kitten around or before six months of age. For female kittens, spaying should be done before their first heat cycle, which typically occurs around six months. After the 16 to 20-week visit, you can schedule the procedure. Neutering male kittens should also be done around this time to prevent potential behavioral issues, such as urine spraying, from developing.
What kind of preventive care does my kitten need? - Ridgetowne Animal Clinic
Vaccinations are crucial for preventative care. Heartworm prevention, flea and tick prevention, and a single-dose topical application for parasites, ear mites, etc., are also recommended. Fecal screenings are conducted as part of preventative wellness care to check for any intestinal parasites that may require additional treatment.
What vaccinations does my kitten need? - Ridgetowne Animal Clinic
Typically, kittens receive the feline distemper vaccine, which protects against respiratory diseases, as a core vaccination at the 12-week visit. The rabies vaccine is also given at this time. It's recommended that all kittens receive the feline leukemia vaccine, regardless of whether they will be indoor or outdoor cats, as there are theories that the vaccine can offer lifelong protection.