The
following viruses are all part of the annual Feline Distemper Shot. By
vaccinating your cat every year, you are helping to prevent these viruses
from making your cat sick.
Viral Rhinotracheitis
(FVR): A highly contagious and widespread respiratory infection,
which can be fatal in kittens. Sneezing, decreased appetite and fever,
followed by a thick discharge from the eyes and nose, mouth breathing, and
coughing are often observed. Recovered cats can become carriers for life and
may or may not experience signs of the disease.
Calicivirus (FCV): A very common upper respiratory infection with signs similar
to FVR. In addition, ulcers or blisters may be seen on the tongue and in the
mouth. FVR and FCV account for up to 90% of all respiratory infections in
cats. As with FCV, recovered cats can become carriers that may or may not
show signs.
Panleukopenia (FPL): It is a widespread and potentially fatal viral disease
because natural exposure is common. It may cause a sudden onset of severe
vomiting and diarrhea, fever, loss of appetite and dehydration. It is
especially dangerous in kittens, but fatalities can occur in adult cats.
Feline Leukemia and
FIV Vaccinations are what we consider to be
lifestyle-dependent. Your cat should receive these vaccines if he or
she will be at risk for these diseases in the future.
Leukemia (FeLV): An
extremely common viral infection that can cause serious disease and even
death. It decreases the ability of a cat’s immune system to respond to
infection and may lead to the development of different types of cancer. FeLV
is passed by direct contact only, so outdoor cats and those in multi-cat
households where each cat’s history is not known are at a greater risk. It
is possible for a cat to carry the Leukemia virus, but not show any symptoms
or signs of illness for a long period of time. We offer Merial's
PUREVAX, a safer alternative to
traditional Leukemia vaccines.
Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV): Felne AIDS is caused by an infection
with FIV, similar to the way Human AIDS is caused by HIV (though similar,
no human has ever been reported to have FIV). The disease interferes
with the immune system of the cat because it is carried in the
bloodstream. Cats with FIV may never show signs of the disease and
may live healthy lives for close to 10 years. The most often way of
transmitting FIV is through bite wounds, so outdoor cats (especially those
that fight) are at the greatest risk of exposure.
Rabies Vaccinations are required by
law and protect your cat from this deadly virus. Anne Arundel County has
one of the highest incidence of Rabies cases in the state.
Rabies: Fatal viral infection of the central
nervous system than can affect all mammals, including humans. The virus is
transmitted through the bite or scratch of an infected animal, but with
routine vaccinations it can be controlled.
