Starting during their first few weeks of life, we recommend vaccinations for kittens to protect them against preventable diseases that in some cases could be detrimental to their health. Your pet should keep up with their vaccinations throughout their adult and senior years to ensure they maintain their protection against diseases.
How do I choose vaccines for my pet?
Some vaccines, like core vaccines, are required for all pets in Ontario. For example, the rabies vaccine is mandatory based on provincial legislation. We recommend non-core vaccines based on your pet’s lifestyle and how susceptible they are to certain diseases within their environment. Your pet should get the following core vaccines, starting at 6 to 8-weeks-old:
- Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis
- Calicivirus
- Panleukopenia
- Rabies
What do non-core vaccines protect my feline friend against?
Depending on the vaccine, your pet will either build full immunity against a disease or their body will develop antibodies to fight against it if they’re ever infected. This means your pet will have less serious symptoms, compared to an unvaccinated pet. The feline leukemia (FeLV) vaccine protects your pet against a form of leukemia that can be fatal. Cats who spend a lot of time outside or regularly interact with other pets are the most at risk of contracting the disease. Feline immunodeficiency disease (FIV) is passed on through saliva, usually when one outdoor cat bites another. This virus can weaken your pet’s immune system, affecting their ability to fight against other infections. If you’re interested in creating a vaccination plan for your cat, please contact us at 905-983-9010.
