The Reasons Behind the Vaccinations:
Viral Infections
Rabies
Rabies is a neurologic disease fatal to any mammal, including cats, dogs, and humans. The virus is passed on most frequently from bites of raccoons, skunks, foxes, and bats via the saliva. Cats are vaccinated once at 12-16 weeks old and annually thereafter.
Panleukopenia "Distemper"
This viral disease affects the gastrointestinal, immune, and neurologic systems of cats. Infection with panleukopenia results in a decrease of all white blood cell types, as the name implies. Down Maine Veterinary Clinic’s vaccination protocol advocates two vaccinations approximately 3-4 weeks apart to be given before 16 weeks of age. After that your cat receives a booster vaccination one year later and every three years thereafter.
Feline Rhinotracheitis and Calici
These two viruses account for the majority of respiratory infections with nasal and ocular discharges in cats.
Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV)
This usually fatal illness causes anemia, weight loss, decreased immune response and increased susceptibility to disease. It is transmitted by bite wounds from infected cats and is most often fatal. We recommend vaccinating all cats that go outdoors for any length of time.
Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV)
Also spread by bite wounds from infected cats, this disease weakens the immune system. Although we do not vaccinate against this virus, a simple blood test conducted when you first acquire your cat is used to identify infected individuals. Acquisition of this viral disease carries with it a poor prognosis. This may be a treatable disease, but it is never curable.