How Vaccines Work
What do vaccines mimic to activate the immune system?
Pathogens (or disease-causing agents)
Name one core feline vaccine.
Panleukopenia, Feline Herpesvirus, or Calicivirus
What does the Chlamydia felis vaccine help prevent?
Conjunctivitis (eye infections)
When should kitten vaccines begin?
6–8 weeks of age
In shelter medicine, can begin as early as 4 weeks.
What is a mild side effect after vaccination?
Swelling, lethargy, or mild fever
True/False: Vaccines are 100% effective.
False
What disease does panleukopenia affect?
Gastrointestinal system; causes vomiting, diarrhea, and lethargy
Which virus is the leading cause of virus-associated deaths in cats that spreads through the saliva, nasal secretions, feces, urine, and milk of infected cats?
Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV)
How often are boosters given to kittens?
Every 3–4 weeks until 16 weeks of age
In shelter medicine, boosters can be given every two weeks.
What is a rare but serious long-term risk?
Injection-site sarcoma
Why is immunity important for cats?
It protects them from serious diseases without getting sick
Which vaccine protects against oral ulcers?
Calicivirus
What percentage of cats diagnosed with FeLV succumb to the disease within two and a half years?
Roughly 50%
How is the adult schedule determined?
Based on lifestyle and risk factors
How can a vet help in vaccine planning?
They tailor the schedule based on the cat’s needs
What happens if a vaccine doesn't work properly?
The cat may not develop full immunity
Which two core diseases cause respiratory symptoms?
Feline Herpesvirus and Calicivirus
Why might multi-cat homes use non-core vaccines?
Higher exposure risk for certain infections
Name one risk factor for adult vaccine plans.
Outdoor exposure, multi-cat households, travel
What lifestyle factors affect vaccine choices?
Indoor/outdoor status, age, health condition
How do individual responses affect vaccine effectiveness?
Some cats may not respond fully, leading to reduced protection
Describe a scenario where all core vaccines are crucial.
In shelters or multi-cat environments with high disease exposure
Which virus compromises the cat's immune system, predisposing them to a variety of other infectious diseases?
Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV)
What’s the latest recommended age for kitten booster completion?
16 weeks
Why do the benefits outweigh the risks?
Vaccines prevent life-threatening diseases with minimal side effects