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. After your cat gets his first shot, hell need a few more doses usually two to four weeks apart until hes 16 to 20 weeks old. I have noticed she is not seeing very well but can hear us call her and will follow our calls. Assess whether your cat isnt eating or is just reluctant to walk to its bowl. Some cats even exhibit lingering fear and anxiety days after coming from the vet. Lethargy can be defined as an abnormal decrease in a cats activity level and alertness. All vaccines have the potential to cause side effects in cats. Mild signs, such as tiredness, mild fever, and decreased appetite, may be present for a short time. Vaccinations What Are the Most Common Side Effects of Cat Vaccinations? Recommendations for treatment or additional diagnostic testing will be based on the specifics of your cats case and the results of their initial workup. We took her to our vet. All vaccines have the potential to cause side effects in cats. 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. If you see your cat shivering after vaccination, it can be from the pain or swelling at the injection site. As the cat receives its shot, its body starts adapting to the vaccine, causing some changes in the body and function. 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. The vaccine wont prevent the disease, but it will keep your kitty from getting very sick from it. A vet must assess a cat with a lump that persists for weeks after vaccination. UTIs in Cats (Urinary Tract Infections in Cats). It may also run a high fever. She started to get more aggressive. This is more likely for older cats with arthritis or joint pain. Vaccination can and do affect a cats behavior. The initial vaccine course is often started at 8-9 weeks of age, with a second injection 3-4 weeks later. After vaccination, some cats will go back to their routines as if nothing happened to them. Some pet owners report a temporary change in the behavior or personality of the cat after vaccination. Better yet, schedule routine visits to the clinic so that you can bring your cats together. 1. After coming home, your cats may seem like total strangers. He gave her a shot of cortizone. The Veterinary Leadership Conference draws veterinarians from across the U.S. for education sessions that help develop leaders for the veterinary profession. 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. This was due to the flexibility of the skin in this area. There is always risk involved in vaccinating a cat. After an incubation stage, clinical signs of aggression, disorientation, and death rapidly progress. It sounds like your cat is having some neurologic symptoms that are very abnormal. They divide cat vaccines into two categories: Core vaccines are those recommended for all cats, no matter where they live or under what conditions. Vaccines that are appropriate for some cats in some circumstances are considered noncore vaccines (or lifestyle vaccines). WebCan your cats personality change after a vaccination? Fever, lethargy, reduced appetite, and swelling are all common. The same isnt true for lethargy. Limping syndrome in cats is a temporary problem. The non-core costs range from $15 to $20 for the year. Sneezing, mild coughing, "snotty nose" or other respiratory signs may occur 2-5 days after your pet receives an intranasal vaccine. Cat Cats can react badly to vaccines, which is an unavoidable side effect of the process. Fearful cats will often display anxiety or even aggression even before the trip to the vet. You should call the vet for advice if your cat feels ill after 48 hours of vaccination. The disease can negatively impact your cats immune system or cause anemia or cancer. 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. ParasitesParasites can pass on diseases and directly harm the body, leading to lethargy in cats. Rabies vaccination is given every year or every three years, depending on state laws and the brand of vaccine used. Its natural for a cat to become listless and sleepy after vaccines are administered. It is normal for your cat to experience mild symptoms ranging from soreness at the site of injection to fever, lethargy and allergic reactions. WebAfter a vaccine, around one-in-ten cats experience a soft swelling at the injection site. Many cats experience mild side effects after vaccination like fever, lethargy, swelling and reduced energy. Rare vaccine side effects In very rare circumstances, a vaccine can cause a severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis). Whether you have a kitten or an adult cat, your vet can help you figure out which vaccines are best and how often your kitty should get shots. Thank you for supporting International Cat Care through your shop purchases! This is a cancerous tumor that develops following inflammation around the site of the injection. As vaccinations are injected into a cats leg, some limited mobility is to be expected. Lethargy is a very nonspecific clinical signits seen with almost every health problem a cat could develop. This should go away on its own in 2-3 days as the symptoms ease. They also think that some shots may be doing more harm than good. 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. 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. Dehydration and electrolyte abnormalitiesWater and appropriate electrolyte levels are essential for a cats body to produce energy and function normally. It might be tempting to sit beside your pet to give him comfort. 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. Please consider making a contribution, big or small, to keep our content free, accurate and relevant. Some that may be available include: Vaccination is generally a very safe procedure that has substantially reduced the impact of several very serious diseases. If in doubt, wait for 30-60 minutes following vaccination before taking your pet home. Cat Vaccinations 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. Is she running a fever? This means that the neck should always be avoided. Neurologic disordersDisease or injury affecting the neurologic system, especially the brain, can lead to lethargy in cats. Understanding vaccinosis in dogs and cats Call your veterinarian immediately if your cat is extremely lethargic or if their lethargy occurs in combination with other serious symptoms like difficulty breathing or severe vomiting or diarrhea. While the disease usually starts with decreased energy and low appetite, it progresses to vomiting and diarrhea. Therefore, veterinarians will often focus on any other symptoms a cat might have when they are trying to figure out what is wrong. How To Euthanize A Cat With Over The Counter Drugs? Ultimately, cat owners should work with their veterinarians to limit the stress associated with visiting a clinic. Rare vaccine side effects In very rare circumstances, a vaccine can cause a severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis). Cats can be allergic to anything. Behavior change in a kitten after vaccination 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. Cats withBordetella bronchispeticacan be treated effectively with appropriate antibiotics, and vaccination is not required in most cats. 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. For example, fleas may remove so much blood from cats that they become anemic. Cats This is because the cat that came from the vet smells differently that the other cat can no longer recognize the first cats scent. This normally lasts for around 48 hours. Cat Behavior After Vaccination A Complete Guide. Theres no better place to network, learn, and meet up with the friends and colleagues who make veterinary medicine so rewarding. Since then we noticed her behavior changed. When a cat is bitten by another cat, an infection is likely to develop. That can upset your cats stomach. This is a temporary lump that goes away after a couple of weeks and nothing to worry about. 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. Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information, Feline viral rhinotracheitis (aka feline herpes virus): a disease that affects your cats upper respiratory system and sometimes his eyes, Feline calicivirus: a disease that causes respiratory infections and oral diseases, Feline panleukopenia virus: a disease that dangerously lowers your cats white blood cell count. Some of the more virulent strains cause hair loss and crusting on other parts of the body, as well as hepatitis and even death. FVCRP, FIP, and Bordetella can be inhaled nasally but may not be as effective as injections. 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. Goodness, this sounds like a very complicated case. 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. Vaccinations After an incubation stage, clinical signs of aggression, disorientation, and death rapidly progress. To prevent aggression between your cats after a visit to the vet, it is a good idea to isolate the vaccinated cat. In short, almost any health condition can lead to lethargy in cats, including: InfectionsFighting off bacteria, viruses, or other pathogens takes a lot of energy. In the vast majority of cases, your cat will feel fine and you wont notice any change in their behavior. Stay current on important veterinary news, AVMA activities, and member services. Lethargic and Not Eating / DrinkingLike lethargy, not eating or drinking well are nonspecific clinical signs that are seen with many cat diseases. Rabies is a zoonotic disease (it can be transmitted from animals to humans), so it is a public safety issue to keep your cat up to date on their rabies vaccine. We took her to our vet. Affected cats typically show sneezing, nasal discharge, conjunctivitis, eye discharge, and mouth ulcers. Contact your veterinarian if you have a lethargic kitten. As a pet owner, one of your first responsibilities is to get your four-legged friend vaccinated on schedule. Less common side effects include: Twitching Itchy skin Vomiting Diarrhoea Limping. Vaccines are medication and like other medical treatments, have their own potential adverse effects. However, vaccination is essential for his health and your familys safety. 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. (The exact requirements will depend on the vaccine, so always make sure to walk through your kittens vaccine schedule with your vet.) Cat Personality Change After Vaccinations This happens because the immune response generated by a vaccine can make cats feel tired, achy, and generally unwell. Any cat that has not eaten for 24 hours is a cause for concern. Lethargy After vaccination, it is normal for your pet to exhibit a few symptoms like fever, lameness, swelling, and 2. However, if you see any severe reactions like swollen eyes or face, breathing difficulty, diarrhea or collapse, you should report to the veterinarian. CancerDifferent types of cancer affect cats in distinct ways, but lethargy is a common clinical sign. If your cat is still unwell 48 hours after its vaccination, then you should call your vet for advice. Sneezing, mild coughing, "snotty nose" or other respiratory signs may occur 2-5 days after your pet receives an intranasal vaccine. It should start to disappear within a couple weeks. Cat Acting Strange After Vaccination Cat Vaccinations Vaccines It is common for cats to experience mild reactions like lethargy, slight fever, localized swelling and reduced appetite in a few hours after getting the shot. You can seek guidance and advice from your vet regarding such behavioral transformation. Others will continue showing fear and anxiety after coming home. After the cat recovers from the initial infection, the virus enters a latency period in the nerves. Again, this is normal behavior. There are many different strains of the FIV virus and it is not entirely clear as of yet how well the available vaccine protects against all these different strains, but studies suggest that it is able to provide a valuable degree of protection for cats at risk of exposure. As a cat owner, you need to be aware of your pets fear at the clinic. Technically, lethargy in cats is never normal, but it is sometimes expected. It is a preparation designed to provide protection against a specific infectious disease through stimulating an immune response that will protect the cat if it is subsequently exposed to the infection. If you let your cat go outdoors, you should probably consider giving him non-core vaccines, since you have no idea what he could be exposed to outside. In this stage, a rabid cat will usually exhibit changes in behavior that aren't typical for their personality: A shy cat can become 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. Cat vaccination recommendations are among the most contentious debates in veterinary medicine. Could it be infectious? A small, firm swelling under the skin may develop at the site of a recent vaccination. These effects should subside in a few hours or days. Ondansetron For Cats (Zofran) All You Need To Know, Mini Hippo Dog - Everything You Need To Know. Vaccines forfeline herpes virus(FHV-1) andfeline calicivirus(FCV) are always combined, as these two viruses together are the main causes of upper respiratory tract infections in cats (cat flu). Infection with FeLV is not an automatic death sentence. All vaccines have to undergo rigorous safety and efficacy testing before they are licensed for use in cats by regulatory authorities. While the rabies vaccine is not listed as a core vaccine by the AAFP guidelines, it is required by law in most regions. FISS remains rare. Cats Have a Reaction to Vaccinations Sneezing, mild coughing, "snotty nose" or other respiratory signs may occur 2-5 days after your pet receives an intranasal vaccine. This is only a concern if it does not quickly recover. A feline that has been vaccinated will want to be on its own to get some sleep for several hours. Since then we noticed her behavior changed. Nutritional disordersCats cant be energetic and engaged without good nutrition. Cats of any age can get FeLV, but its typically considered a core vaccine for cats under 1 year old. Also, she wants to clean herself and tries to play like she used to. Vaccines and Vaccinations: Individual Animals If your cat has little energy or limping syndrome, the walk can feel like a long journey, especially for an older cat with joint problems or arthritis pain. Your cats lifestyle and geographic location will help you and your vet determine whether or not he needs a non-core vaccine. We also discuss common cat vaccination concerns to help pet owners determine what they should expect. Lethargy After vaccination, it is normal for your pet to exhibit a few symptoms like fever, lameness, swelling, and 2. Cat Enema Side Effects What To Expect After Cat Enema? In some cases, it also causes oral ulceration andpneumonia. Rare vaccine side effects In very rare circumstances, a vaccine can cause a severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis). Less common side effects include: Twitching Itchy skin Vomiting Diarrhoea Limping. They also think that some shots may be doing more harm than good. Some streaming from the eyes and nose may also follow. Lethargic and WobblyCats who are wobbly could be suffering from a neurologic problem or metabolic disease, or they could simply be very weak. Since then we noticed her behavior changed. A vet will offeressential vaccinations for your cat. If your cat takes its vaccinations intranasally, it will sneeze and sniff for a while afterward. It should start to disappear within a couple weeks. 1. I'm experienced in all cat health-related matters, behavioral issues, grooming techniques, and general pet care. Rabies is endemic worldwide, and the vaccine is recommended for all pet cats. Hormonal abnormalities (e.g., diabetes)Abnormal hormone levels change physiologic processes throughout the body, which can make cats feel sick. Cats Have a Reaction to Vaccinations Transmitted through body fluids including saliva, urine, and feces, FeLV is spread when an infected cat comes into close contact with another cat that they groom or share bowls with. WebMany pet owners and some animal scientists believe that we are over vaccinating our pets. This tumor would need to be removed, and this is not easy around the neck. If you go to the vet, you can probably expect an office visit charge in addition to the cost of the vaccine. He told me to bring her in and he would get to her when he could. Poisoning or envenomationToxins and venomous stings or bites can cause pain, damage tissues, and disrupt normal physiologic functions. This, in turn, will allow cancerous cells to spread. However, these adverse effects should subside after 24 to 48 hours. After a couple of days, he will bounce back to his normal self. WebHow will your cat feel after receiving a vaccine? A trip to the vet for vaccination is never a pleasant experience for your cat. Heart diseaseA heart that isnt pumping normally cant move blood around the body well. These reactions should not be severe. If they are outdoor or indoor/outdoor, or they are young cats or seniors, your vet may recommend yearly FVRCP shots. Your veterinarian can assess your cats risk of FeLV infection and decide on an appropriate vaccination schedule. Limping This reaction mainly affects young kittens, usually at their first vaccination. Cat vaccination 10 things you should For further information on FeLV, seeFeline leukaemia virus. Liver and kidney diseaseWaste products build up when these organs fail, which disrupts normal chemical processes and makes cats feel terrible. WebHow will your cat feel after receiving a vaccine? Your vet always tells you how important it is to get your cat vaccinated, but you might still be wondering if its worth it. If your cat belongs to the second camp, there are a few things that you can do to make him feel better while recovering. Cats that have this vaccination often experience stiffened joints. Cat booster shots The panel comprisesdedicated feline veterinarians and scientists and is regarded as a reputable source of cat vaccination standards. This is because the immune system has started reacting to the vaccine. While most cats behave normally after vaccination, it is common A potential problem is that vaccinated cats will also test positive on the routine tests used to detect FIV-infected cats, but newer diagnostic assays are becoming available that may overcome this problem. The other three core vaccines are combined into a single three-in-one vaccine called the FVRCP vaccine. Cat Vaccinations If your cat seems to have undergone a complete personality transformation, seek further guidance from a vet. Some cats are temporarily different or never quite the same after vaccination. Every week we publish insightful pet articles to educate, inspire, and make your life easier. WebLow energy (lethargy) Eating less Sleeping more Fever (high temperature) Mild swelling around the vaccine site that disappears in two - six weeks. Cat Vaccinations 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 If your cat does not show any such severe symptoms, you can wait for a few hours to see if it stops shivering. Other vaccines are regarded as non-core and used when vaccination would provide valuable protection for an individual cat. I dont know how long after the vaccines that the signs start. Cats lack the fat reserves to sustain them. A cat can have an allergic reaction to a vaccination. Both of these viruses are ubiquitous in cat populations, and because infection is so common, and can often be quite severe (especially in younger cats), vaccination is considered important for all cats. iCatCare may receive a commission or share in the net profit of some purchases made through the affiliate links. It is now common also to recommend a third vaccination (especially for FPV) at 16-20 weeks of age to ensure the kitten is properly protected. 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. For these reasons, where rabies is present in a country or in a region, it is recommended that all cats should be vaccinated against this disease. Some cats may also have trouble walking and experience stomach upsets. Vaccines Senior cats may slow down a bit more, but extreme or sudden changes are usually a sign of a health problem. Keep track of product alerts for pet foods, animal feed, and products used by veterinarians or animal owners. Vaccinations 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. An article that might be helpful to you is Dealing with Cats that Wont Eat. 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. You can try comforting it with some food or drink to alleviate the pain or discomfort associated with vaccination. 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. Vaccinating your cat 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. When the underlying cause can be successfully treated, the lethargy should resolve as well. Attend topical CE meetings on subjects including animal welfare, wellbeing, economics, and public policy. Featured image: iStock.com/GoodLifeStudio. Most cats want to sleep for a few hours after getting their shot. In addition, vaccines can cause allergic reactions. Flat Feet In Dogs UPDATED 2022 A Complete Guide. In other cases, the cat that was recently vaccinated becomes the victim of aggression by the other feline members of your home. WebThe vaccine protocols that are being questioned are those for the core vaccines administered to adult dogs and cats. However, these shouldneverbe used they have no scientific basis and cannot provoke the specific immune response that is needed to provide protection. After a latent period lasting months or even years, the disease often progresses to a variety of associated conditions:lymphoma, anemia, or immunosuppression resulting in secondary disease. All vaccines have the potential to cause side effects in cats. Vaccine Related Sarcomas After a few days, you can expect your pet to revert to his true personality. I had then decided to take her to our local emergency vet clinic. This will help minimize aggression because they will be both familiar with the scents in the clinic. 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. All our advice is freely accessible to everyone, wherever you are in the world. While the rabies vaccine is not listed as a core vaccine by the AAFP guidelines, it is required by law in most regions. Before going to the vet, it is a good idea to prepare a warm and cozy place for your cat. 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. Bordetella: 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. Rabies is endemic worldwide, and the vaccine is recommended for all pet cats. Some cats may also have trouble walking and experience stomach upsets. You need to ensure that your cat is left alone. 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. Vaccines and Vaccinations: Individual Animals 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. On average, your cats core vaccines alone (without the office visit charge) can cost $40 to $80 for the first years worth of shots. If your cat refuses to eat after getting a shot, you should not worry about it. The inflammation caused by the vaccination activates the malignant tumor and causes it to spread. Heres What You Should Know! 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