When Should my Cat Get the FVRCP Vaccine in Buffalo Grove, IL

Do you have a cat in Buffalo Grove? Do you know when he needs to have his shots updated? Is he a new cat who may need some first shots, or have you had him for a little while?

If you are a cat owner in Buffalo Grove, you may already be aware of the shot schedule you should follow for your feline friend. However, if not, it’s important to pay attention to some of the lesser-known vaccinations your cat may still require.

In the article below, you’ll find out some general information about the FVRCP vaccination, and you’ll also be able to figure out when your cat might need this important shot in Buffalo Grove. Read on to learn more about how to keep your cat protected against these illnesses.

What is FVRCP?

FVRCP is a vaccination that includes three different illnesses. These illnesses are panleukopenia, rhinotracheitis, and calicivirus. Each of these illnesses are very dangerous for cats and can easily turn deadly, so it’s crucial to make sure your cat is protected against them as soon as possible.

Panleukopenia is also called distemper, and it’s very similar in cats to the type of distemper found in dogs. It causes severe bloody diarrhea and vomiting, which can lead to dehydration in a very short time. Cats may only live up to 12 hours after becoming sick with distemper unless they have prompt veterinary care and treatment.

Rhinotracheitis is a serious respiratory illness that is caused by feline herpes. It causes severe sneezing and crusty eyes as well as a runny nose, and it will eventually lead a cat to stop eating entirely. It is often fatal because of this.

Calicivirus is also a respiratory illness which is very similar to rhinotracheitis. However, it can also cause open sores in the mouth and can lead to severe pneumonia in cats who are not treated. It is usually fatal as well, especially to kittens, older cats, or cats with underlying health problems.

How important is it to get this shot for an indoor cat?

You may think that your cat doesn’t need to be vaccinated against the illnesses included in a FVRCP vaccination if he never goes outside. While it’s true that this will severely limit his contact with other cats, it’s also important to note that these diseases are spread through the air and are extremely contagious to cats.

If you have a porch, patio, or balcony that your cat spends some time on, it’s possible that he could contract these illnesses from nearby stray cats who are sick. Also, if you spend time around any other cats yourself, you could risk bringing these diseases in on your shoes, clothes, hands, or other items you have with you at the time.

When should your cat be vaccinated for FVRCP?

Because of the severe risk and frequent fatality associated with the diseases included in this vaccination, kittens should be vaccinated for FVRCP as early as six weeks of age. It is important to have this first shot for very young kittens so they can remain healthy and grow up strong as well.

Cats will also need three more booster shots during their kitten months, spread one month apart from each other. Most kittens will receive their round of four FVRCP shots at six weeks, ten weeks, fourteen weeks, and eighteen weeks, although our vet in Buffalo Grove will let you know if this needs to change at all for your cat.

How often does your cat need this vaccination in Buffalo Grove?

If you know your cat’s vaccination history, you will probably need to have him vaccinated against FVRCP diseases every year. Some vets, however, recommend a shot every two years, especially for cats who are indoor-only. Our vet will be able to give you more information about when to have your cat vaccinated and when to get a booster.

If you have just adopted an adult cat in Buffalo Grove and you don’t know his vaccination history, you should have him vaccinated immediately for FVRCP and should take him back a month later for a booster.

Contact Our Vet Today to Schedule an Vaccination Appointment in Buffalo Grove Today

As you can see, the FVRCP vaccination is an important one that can help keep your cat healthy and safe for longer. By keeping your cat up to date with his vaccinations, including FVRCP, you can ensure that he is well cared for.

If you have any further questions or concerns about this vaccination, be sure to contact our vet. Our team will be happy to answer any questions and help you better understand the need for this vaccination as well. If you’re concerned about having any unnecessary shots for your cat, we can help you figure out what to do about FVRCP too. Ready to schedule a vaccination appointment for your cat in Buffalo Grove? Call us at (847) 394-1128 or Request an Appointment.