Kitten Vaccinations

• Kittens begin vaccinations at 9 weeks old - this is around the time that the natural protection afforded by the mother is no longer adequate.

• It is important to note that cats and kittens should be vaccinated whether or not they will be allowed outdoors.

Cats, like all animals, are susceptible to a variety of diseases - some of which can be very serious and even fatal. When your kitten was born, some natural protection against disease will have been passed on by the mother - however this doesn't last very long. As a responsible cat owner, you must ensure your cat's health is protected by having your kitten vaccinated.

Your vet will vaccinate your kitten against the following:



Cat Flu

• First vaccination at 9 weeks old, followed by a booster three weeks later. Annual boosters are recommended.

This vaccination will cover two types of cat flu:

Herpesvirus Cat Flu: (also known as Feline Rhinotrachetis)


This is a common type of viral upper respiratory disease and is most common in kittens and older cats. Once your kitten or cat is infected with this disease, it will have it for life, causing problems with the eyes, nose and sinuses.

For more information, please visit: http://www.cat-world.com.au/FelineHerpes.htm


Calicivirus Cat Flu:

This type of cat flu is milder than the herpesvirus but more difficult to fully vaccinate against because, like human flu, there are many different strains. Cats are able shake off this type of the virus in later life, but it can cause much distress to young kittens.

For more information, please visit: http://www.bluecross.org.uk/web/site/Pawprint/AllAboutPets/Cat_flu.asp


Feline Infectious Enteritis: (also known as Feline Panleucopenia, Feline Parvovirus)

• First vaccination at 9 weeks old, followed by a booster three weeks later. Annual boosters are recommended.

This is an acute type of gastroenteritis that attacks the affected cats gut and can cause brain damage in unborn kittens. It is often fatal.

For more information, please visit: http://www.fabcats.org/enteritis.html


Feline Leukemia

• First vaccination at 9 weeks old, followed by a booster three weeks later. Annual boosters are recommended.

This is the most dangerous virus to your cat, killing more cats than any other virus or disease. Your kitten MUST be vaccinated against feline leukemia.

For more information, please visit: http://www.winnfelinehealth.org/health/FeLV.html


Feline Chlamydophilia felis: (also known as Feline Chlamydiosis or Feline Chlamydia)

• This is a relatively mild upper respiratory disease, which can be vaccinated against if the owner wishes it. Some cats or kittens are at greater risk than others. It is important to consult your vet, who will advise you about this vaccination.

For more information, please visit: http://www.future-of-vaccination.co.uk/conjunctivitis-cat-chlamydophila.asp