Vaccines are an important healthcare measure, protecting your pet against a range of preventable diseases. Depending on their risk factors for contracting certain diseases, we’ll develop a vaccine plan based on their needs. If you have questions about vaccines or would like to develop a plan for your pet, please contact us at 403-938-4171.
What types of vaccines are available?
Vaccines are separated into two categories, core and non-core. Core vaccinations are the essential vaccines your pet needs, usually mandated by the government and veterinary association. Some are given as a combination, protecting against multiple diseases and infections. Non-core vaccinations are given based on the risk of your feline friend contracting certain diseases. We recommend the following core vaccines for feline friends:
- Feline rhinotracheitis virus (feline herpes virus)
- Feline calicivirus
- Feline panleukopenia
- Rabies
When should they start getting vaccinated?
When kittens are born, their mother’s milk provides some antibodies which protect them against infections in their first few weeks of life. As this immunity wears off, vaccinations step in to provide protection. We recommend kittens start getting vaccinated at 8-weeks-old. They’ll continue to receive their first vaccines at 12 and 16 weeks. After their first birthday, your pet will receive more vaccines as well as boosters in their adult years. Our veterinary team will create a vaccine schedule for your pet, which will help keep you up-to-date with when your pet should receive their vaccines.
Are there alternatives to vaccines?
We highly discourage using at-home remedies or other alternatives to vaccines. Vaccination is a safe and effective way to protect your pet against preventable diseases. Though there are a few side effects associated with vaccines, like allergic reactions, swelling or redness at the injection site, these are pretty rare.
