cat behavior after vaccination

These reactions should not be severe. Rare vaccine side effects In very rare circumstances, a vaccine can cause a severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis). They also think that some shots may be doing more harm than good. 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. All vaccines have the potential to cause side effects in cats. Dr. Debra, Recently, my kitten (2 months old) had her first installment of vaccinations. Your cat may also need to undergo radiotherapy or chemotherapy. 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. Less common side effects include: Twitching Itchy skin Vomiting Diarrhoea Limping. Talk to your veterinarian if your cats lethargy does not improve. He did not know what was wrong. The virus can also survive for long periods in the environment so vaccination is the only real way to protect cats. The cost of your cats vaccines will vary depending on where you get them done. Lethargic and WobblyCats who are wobbly could be suffering from a neurologic problem or metabolic disease, or they could simply be very weak. In most cases, the risks posed by vaccination are outweighed by the safety that vaccines provide. Not all cats experience these problems after vaccination. Youll need to make an informed decision about whether to vaccinate your cat based on the available medical evidence. Outbreaks of infection with this virus are common and a high proportion of affected cats can die. Cats that have this vaccination often experience stiffened joints. Better yet, schedule routine visits to the clinic so that you can bring your cats together. These diseases are highly infectious and seen worldwide. Then the next day I called him back because she started hanging her head and falling to the right and could not keep her balance. But some cats will behave differently. 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. WebCan your cats personality change after a vaccination? WebThe vaccine protocols that are being questioned are those for the core vaccines administered to adult dogs and cats. Cat Vaccinations 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. I have noticed she is not seeing very well but can hear us call her and will follow our calls. The FeLV vaccine protects against feline leukemia virus, which is a fatal disease in cats. Fever, lethargy, reduced appetite, and swelling are all common. Cat Lethargic and Limping After a Vaccine Press Enter / Return to begin your search. The most commonly available vaccines are used to provide protection against the following infections: Vaccines can be divided into core vaccines and non-core vaccines. Recent vaccinationCats may be lethargic for a day or two as their immune system responds to vaccination. 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. But usually, these behavioral changes are temporary in nature. Get best-in-class CE in some of your favorite cities. Then the next day I called him back because However, based on most recent data, the Vaccine Advisory Panel recommends that subsequent vaccines may be administered based on risk: yearly for high-risk cats, and every two years for lower-risk cats. Cat PainIts difficult for a cat to move around or be interested in much of anything if they are in moderate to severe pain. As the cat receives its shot, its body starts adapting to the vaccine, causing some changes in the body and function. WebMany pet owners and some animal scientists believe that we are over vaccinating our pets. However, these shouldneverbe used they have no scientific basis and cannot provoke the specific immune response that is needed to provide protection. The cat can behave strangely, get aggressive, show lethargy or refuse to eat. 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. The same isnt true for lethargy. Vaccinations Mild reactions can include a variety of symptoms such as mild fever, lethargy, poor appetite, sneezing or respiratory problems, slight discomfort at the injection site, slight swelling at the injection site, and vomiting. 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 Read the latest news about the AVMA and the veterinary profession, and search archives dating back to 2000. WebHow will your cat feel after receiving a vaccine? Make sure that food and water are readily available to him. To help your pet stay healthy, limit their contact with infected animals and to environments where diseases may be more common. Many illnesses will also make a cat lethargic, so its quite likely that a sick or recently vaccinated cat will be lethargic. Its easy to be overwhelmed when you hear conflicting information about whether your cat needs them and the adverse effects they may have. In some cases, it also causes oral ulceration andpneumonia. The shots come in a series every 3 to 4 weeks. In comparison, healthy kittens are never lethargic. Some of these problems, like cancer, are more common as pets get older, but lethargy can strike cats at any age. She started to get more aggressive. You can also use a towel to extract the scent of the other cats and then rub that towel on the cat that visited the vet. Also, many local and state governments have laws about vaccines like rabies. Since then we noticed her behavior changed. 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. Others will continue showing fear and anxiety after coming home. 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. Cat booster shots Some cats even exhibit lingering fear and anxiety days after coming from the vet. Cat Cat vaccination 10 things you should The inflammation caused by the vaccination activates the malignant tumor and causes it to spread. Dr. Debra, Recently, my kitten (2 months old) had her first installment of vaccinations. Feline herpesvirus, also known asfeline rhinotracheitis virus, causes severe signs of upper respiratory infection. Many illnesses will also make a cat lethargic, so its quite likely that a sick or recently vaccinated cat will be lethargic. These symptoms are common and should subside independently in a few hours. In some cases, affected kittens may develop pneumonia. In this stage, a rabid cat will usually exhibit changes in behavior that aren't typical for their personality: A shy cat can become Mild signs, such as tiredness, mild fever, and decreased appetite, may be present for a short time. Always inform your veterinarian if your pet has had prior reactions to any vaccine or medication. 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. 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. 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. It sounds like your cat is having some neurologic symptoms that are very abnormal. Like any other medical treatment, vaccinations have their risks and adverse effects. All vaccines have the potential to cause side effects in cats. Some cats are temporarily different or never quite the same after vaccination. Cats can be allergic to anything. Some common side effects of feline vaccinations include: These side effects should be short-lived. Every week we publish insightful pet articles to educate, inspire, and make your life easier. Vaccination against this virus is highly effective and has a critical role in protecting cats against infection, especially as the virus is highly contagious. The side effect that has received the most attention in recent years is fibrosarcoma this is a type of malignant tumour that can develop at the site of vaccination. This can manifest in the form of aggression or clinginess. Rabiesis significant not only for its effect on the cat but because it is a disease that is transmissible to humans and can be fatal. Behavior change in a kitten after vaccination I cant see how that can be rabies. In this stage, a rabid cat will usually exhibit changes in behavior that aren't typical for their personality: A shy cat can become An article that might be helpful to you is Dealing with Cats that Wont Eat. Decisions regarding the requirement for non-core vaccines may be based on the cats age, lifestyle and contact with other cats. Respiratory conditionsAnything that hinders the lungs ability to move oxygen into the bloodstream can lead to lethargy in cats. It is normal for your cat to experience mild symptoms ranging from soreness at the site of injection to fever, lethargy and allergic reactions. Vaccinating your cat If you go to the vet, you can probably expect an office visit charge in addition to the cost of the vaccine. Nutritional disordersCats cant be energetic and engaged without good nutrition. Limping syndrome in cats is a temporary problem. The bacterium can also be an occasional cause of pneumonia in young kittens. Core vaccines for cats are: The FVRCP vaccine is a combination vaccine to protect your cat from three pretty serious diseases: These diseases can affect things like your cats respiratory system and white blood cell count. Neurologic disordersDisease or injury affecting the neurologic system, especially the brain, can lead to lethargy in cats. Also, she wants to clean herself and tries to play like she used to. While most cats behave normally after vaccination, it is common 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. An allergic reaction is more concerning than a typical reaction to a vaccine. 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. WebSome cats will develop a mild reaction that may last for a few days to a week after the vaccination. Your vet should examine the cat to determine whether it has developed a serious allergic reaction to the vaccine. Limping This reaction mainly affects young kittens, usually at their first 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. Get the latest updates on your choice of veterinary topics delivered straight to your inbox. It is possible to perform blood tests to identify cats that are infected with this virus, and isolating such cats and preventing them from coming into contact with others is one way of preventing infection. Vaccinations after These dangers alone are not enough to avoid getting feline vaccinations, though. Previously, many vets chose to administer shots to the neck. Vaccines are medication and like other medical treatments, have their own potential adverse effects. 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. Commonly, your feline friend reacts to these side effects of vaccination with a strange behavior that may concern you. (The exact requirements will depend on the vaccine, so always make sure to walk through your kittens vaccine schedule with your vet.) Copyright 1999 - 2023. Treatment for lethargy in cats is directed at finding and resolving the underlying cause. The availability of different vaccines will vary between different countries, because some diseases are not present everywhere, and because vaccines are not necessarily licensed (and therefore available) in every country. This happens because the immune response generated by a vaccine can make cats feel tired, achy, and generally unwell. This usually takes a day. side effects associated with cat vaccination. You should call the vet for advice if your cat feels ill after 48 hours of vaccination. These effects should subside in a few hours or days. If so, your cat is showing the classic signs of lethargy. They are very dangerous to young cats, and the vaccines are considered to provide a good deal of protection with minimal risk. And if youre about to adopt a cat, some rescues and shelters will include the costs of the vaccines he already got in your cats adoption fees. This is more likely for older cats with arthritis or joint pain. This allows veterinarians to efficiently administer the vaccines all at once, instead of having to inject a cat three separate times in one visit: If your cat is an indoor adult cat, FVRCP can be done every three years. 1. What You Need to Know About Rabies Vaccines for Cats. Cat Acting Strange After Vaccination Sometimes, the pet may even need further observation or other treatments. 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. FISS can cause a cancerous tumor at the site of the vaccination. It usually depends on theirage, overall health, and lifestyle. Cat Diseases: What Is Bobcat Fever and Why Is It Deadly to Cats? Since then we noticed her behavior changed. Your purchase directly supports the leading global cat welfare charity, International Cat Care. CancerDifferent types of cancer affect cats in distinct ways, but lethargy is a common clinical sign. FCV is thought to be associated with chronicgingivitis/stomatitis, a very painful inflammation of the gums and teeth. 2022 MyCuteAnimals. They divide cat vaccines into two categories: Core vaccines are those recommended for all cats, no matter where they live or under what conditions. Poisoning or envenomationToxins and venomous stings or bites can cause pain, damage tissues, and disrupt normal physiologic functions. Did they do routine blood work including a complete blood count, diagnostic profile, feline leukemia and feline aids tests? Generally, cats that go outside and may come across other cats of unknown status may be at risk of being exposed to FeLV, and vaccinating such cats may be very valuable (although the risks will vary between different regions). This is a temporary lump that goes away after a couple of weeks and nothing to worry about. Fearful cats will often display anxiety or even aggression even before the trip to the vet. This is because the cat that came from the vet smells differently that the other cat can no longer recognize the first cats scent. Also, other vaccinations are highly recommended to protect your cat against infectious diseases. 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. Mild signs, such as tiredness, mild fever, and decreased appetite, may be present for a short time. 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. Liver and kidney diseaseWaste products build up when these organs fail, which disrupts normal chemical processes and makes cats feel terrible. WebAfter a vaccine, around one-in-ten cats experience a soft swelling at the injection site. A vaccination against rabies would usually happen in the right back leg, while a vaccination for FVCRP would happen in the right front leg. However, it is normal for cats to feel ill for a few hours or days after vaccination. All rights reserved. A cats immune system starts to adapt following a vaccine, which means that a cat may feel sick. For example, fleas may remove so much blood from cats that they become anemic. Black Spots, Gunk & Blackheads On Dog Nipples: What Do They Mean?? Well, it totally is. WebHow will your cat feel after receiving a vaccine? Gastrointestinal problemsDiseases leading to poor digestion or nutrient absorption can reduce a cats energy levels. WebHow will your cat feel after receiving a vaccine? All rights reserved. Feline Distemper (Panleukopenia), Feline Herpesvirus (FHV-1), and Feline Calicivirus (FCV), These three vaccines are combined into one (FVCRP vaccine), Swelling around the location of the injection, Swelling around the face, eyes, mouth, and neck, Low blood pressure and decreased heart rate. The first one is called the prodromal stage. If your cat does not show any such severe symptoms, you can wait for a few hours to see if it stops shivering. Although the experience is never pleasant, felines must be vaccinated against rabies by law. how long do cat vaccine side effects last, how long do side effects of distemper vaccine last, how long does a vaccine lump last in dogs, how to make cat feel better after vaccines, how to make cat feel better after vaccines uk, negative side effects of rabies vaccine in dogs, side effects of distemper vaccine in cats, side effects of distemper vaccine in dogs, side effects of feline leukemia vaccination, side effects of rabies vaccine in older dogs. Dog Ate Uncooked Rice? Feline panleucopenia virus(also known as feline parvovirus or feline infectious enteritis) is a severe and frequently fatal cause of haemorrhagic gastroenteritis. This should go away on its own in 2-3 days as the symptoms ease. The panel comprisesdedicated feline veterinarians and scientists and is regarded as a reputable source of cat vaccination standards. Vaccination is very effective in preventing disease. The effectiveness of these vaccines should be evaluated carefully, and none of these should be regarded as core (or essential) vaccines. Keep in mind that vaccines dont offer total immunity from diseases. Is your cat lying around more than normal? ParasitesParasites can pass on diseases and directly harm the body, leading to lethargy in cats. Your vet always tells you how important it is to get your cat vaccinated, but you might still be wondering if its worth it. Do Cats Understand Human Smiles And Facial Expressions? Please consider making a contribution, big or small, to keep our content free, accurate and relevant. He told me to bring her in and he would get to her when he could. After an incubation stage, clinical signs of aggression, disorientation, and death rapidly progress. In other cases, the cat that was recently vaccinated becomes the victim of aggression by the other feline members of your home. If your kitten or senior cat becomes lethargic, contact your veterinarian right away. When a cat is bitten by another cat, an infection is likely to develop. Though rare, your cat may undergo a complete personality change. Other vaccines are regarded as non-core and used when vaccination would provide valuable protection for an individual cat. Typically, these symptoms, including lethargy and lack of appetite, vanish after two to three days. When a cat is bitten by another cat, an infection is likely to develop. They tend to be either fully onrunning around like maniacsor fully offresting up for another round. Vaccines Limping This reaction mainly affects young kittens, usually at their first vaccination. As cats age, they often spend more time quietly observing the world around them (or napping), but this isnt lethargy; its growing up. Make a note of all the changes to your cats behavior. A small, firm swelling under the skin may develop at the site of a recent vaccination. It should start to disappear within a couple weeks. By clicking Subscribe, I agree to the WebMD, Smart Grocery Shopping When You Have Diabetes, Surprising Things You Didn't Know About Dogs and Cats, Smoking Pot Every Day Linked to Heart Risks, Artificial Sweetener Linked to Heart Risks, FDA Authorizes First At-Home Test for COVID and Flu, New Book: Take Control of Your Heart Disease Risk, MINOCA: The Heart Attack You Didnt See Coming, Health News and Information, Delivered to Your Inbox, Panleukopenia (also known as feline distemper). Lethargic cats often do sleep more than normal, but their lethargy remains unless the underlying problem is addressed. This behavior can last for about a day and your pet should start eating in few hours. Some cats may also have trouble walking and experience stomach upsets. For more information, please see ourPrivacy Policy. Owners should not get concerned if their cat starts acting strange after vaccination. However, it is not a concern if the cat gets better with time and recovers in a few hours. American Veterinary Medical Foundation (AVMF), What to expect after your pet's vaccination, Discomfort and local swelling at the vaccination site, Sneezing, mild coughing, "snotty nose" or other respiratory signs may occur 2-5 days after your pet receives an intranasal vaccine, Swelling of the muzzle and around the face, neck, or eyes. If the cat has not eaten for over a day or it has other symptoms like fever or pain, you should consult the vet to see what is wrong. If your cat refuses to eat after getting a shot, you should not worry about it. **Click here to see the full list of Ask Dr. Debra Questions and Answers! However, as a charity, we need your support to enable us to keep delivering high quality and up to date information for everyone. But is it possible for vaccines to alter a cats personality? Even though its a confusing topic, making sure your cat has the shots they need and keeping up with booster shots is very important. WebMD does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Keep track of product alerts for pet foods, animal feed, and products used by veterinarians or animal owners. This is only a concern if it does not quickly recover. In some cases, affected kittens may develop pneumonia. While most cats behave normally after vaccination, it is common to see some changes in behavior of your feline friend for a few hours once it gets its vaccine shot.