Several years ago we updated our canine vaccination protocol to reduce the potential over-vaccination of dogs. For the cats, it’s taken a little longer for the scientists to manufacture and approve the vaccinations but we are now ready to make changes to the feline vaccination protocol.

The traditional annual F3 vaccination made up of three components will be replaced with a series of vaccinations administered across a three-year cycle. This will reduce over-vaccination of cats while still keeping them protected against some really nasty diseases.

So what are cats actually vaccinated against?

Traditionally an F3 vaccine stimulating immunity against Feline Panleucopenia, Feline Calicivirus and Feline Herpesvirus (cat flu) is given each year. All cats still need protection against all these diseases but the frequency with which we need to stimulate the immune system with vaccinations has reduced.

With new advances in vaccine production, Feline Panleucopenia immunity is now longer lasting and vaccination against this disease only needs to be given every three years. Feline Calicivirus and Herpesvirus (causing cat flu) still need to be given each year.

So what will my cat get and when?

Kittens should have two ‘baby’ vaccinations. These kitten vaccinations are for all three viruses.

At their first annual vaccination, just over one year old, all cats are vaccinated against all three viruses. From then on they will receive Feline Panleucopaenia (F1) only every three years but Feline Calicivirus and Herpesvirus (F2) will continue to be annually.

All these dates can be a little confusing so it’s important to keep good records of what and when your cat has had so it’s clear what they will be due for next. Our computer system will do this for you! All you really need to do is come in once a year when reminded for your annual health check.

Yearly health checks are vitally important in making sure your beloved cat is healthy and in catching disease issues early. We want to help you help your pet to stay in tip top condition. With our new and updated feline vaccination protocol you can be sure that your cat is protected while not receiving unnecessary treatments and will stay fit and healthy for as long as possible.