A cat vaccination should be performed to make the pet immune to several common feline diseases. The vaccinations are preventive measures and can protect the pet, but these vaccines may have some side effects as well. Each type of vaccination has separate side effects.
Side Effects of Rabies Vaccine
The rabies can be a severe condition and can lead to death. The rabies vaccine is necessary for each feline and should be administered when the pet is 6 weeks old; boosters should be administered every 1 to 3 years.
The possible side effects of the rabies vaccine are rare but may include seizures, nervous system damage, kidney and liver problems. These side effects may occur 40 to 60 days after the administration of the vaccine.
Side Effects of FVRCP Vaccine
The FVRCP vaccine is a combination of shots against the feline distemper, the calicivirus and the feline viral rhinotracheitis (FVR).
The possible side effects of the FVRCP vaccine include:
- Flu like symptoms such as watery eyes and runny nose, sneezing and coughing
- Vomiting
- Depression
- Breathing problems in rare cases
These symptoms will not persist; they should typically go away in 3 to 5 days after the administration of the vaccine.
Side Effects of the Leukemia Vaccine
The feline leukemia vaccine is a non core vaccine and may not be recommended for all felines. The cats that spend all their life indoors don’t require this vaccine, as the leukemia virus is transmitted through contact with other infected felines, bites, feces or other bodily fluids.
The side effects of the feline leukemia vaccine will include:
- Swelling at the injection site
- Fever for a few days
- Lumps
- Cancerous sarcomas, which require chemotherapy or radiation treatment
Feline Immunodeficiency Virus Side Effects
The feline AIDS or the immunodeficiency virus can be prevented by administering a vaccine. One major side effect of the FIV vaccine is the fact that the cat FIV test will always show as positive, even if it is a false positive.
The injection site will be swollen and irritated for up to 5 days after the administration of the shot. The vaccine may also cause benign and malignant tumors at the injection site.
The FIV vaccine doesn’t offer 100% protection against the immunodeficiency virus, so getting this vaccine should be discusses with the vet and only applied if necessary.
Chlamydia Vaccine Side Effects
The Chlamydia psittaci vaccine may prevent the contraction of bacteria that cause Chlamydiosis, a condition affecting the eyes and lungs of felines.
The vaccine may cause side effects such as lack of appetite and eating disorders, fever, flu like symptoms and lethargy.
The Chlamydia psittaci vaccine doesn’t offer 100% protection against the bacteria but may diminish the disease symptoms if the cat contracts the bacteria. You should decide if you administer this shot to your pet.