Getting your cat well is one of the top items on the agenda of any pet mum or dad, and vaccination against severe illness is a big help. One vaccine that takes the top spot when it comes to cats is FVRCP vaccination, which provides immunity against three highly contagious viruses—Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis (FVR), Calicivirus (C), and Panleukopenia (P). It can cause severe respiratory diseases, painful ulceration, fever, vomiting, and life-threatening illness in the cat.

At Supertails+ , we highly recommend FVRCP vaccination for cats, whether they are indoor cats or outdoor cats. If you require expert opinion from a veterinarian, Supertails offers professional online consultation to guide you through your cat's vaccination schedule and care. Here we have discussed everything you should know about the FVRCP vaccine for cats, including its benefits to its timing, possible side effects, and other means to keep your kitty in the best shape.

Also, read-  Understanding the Importance of Cat Gut Health  

The FVRCP vaccine is a multi-valent vaccine created to protect against three extremely infectious and potentially fatal feline conditions:

1. Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis (FVR): The feline herpesvirus (FHV-1) is responsible for the respiratory condition leading to a life-threatening upper respiratory infection, continued sneezing, congestion in the nasal passage, eye and nasal discharge, fever, lethargy, and conjunctivitis. Chronic disease occurs due to this virus causing eye infections over and over and causing breathing problems that impact the quality of life for a cat.

2. Calicivirus (C) : This virus infection of the respiratory tract in a cat will cause sneezing, coughing, ulcers on the tongue and in the mouth, pneumonia, and, in extreme cases, very painful joints. In more virulent strains, calicivirus can cause systemic infections that migrate to large organs and become life-threatening.

3. Panleukopenia (P): Feline distemper, a highly infectious and fatal condition, attacks the immune system of a cat as well as the gastrointestinal tract. It causes extreme fever, vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, dehydration, and a life-threatening low count of white blood cells, thereby making cats prey to secondary infection. Panleukopenia is almost certain to be fatal, particularly for kittens and unprotected adult cats.

The FVRCP vaccine is important in establishing robust immunity against these diseases, keeping your cat healthy, energetic, and safe from serious infections.

The FVRCP vaccine falls under the classification of a core vaccine, and as such, it is very highly recommended for every cat, regardless of its environment or lifestyle. Here's why it's a must-have Learn more about the Complete Cat Vaccination Schedule ( not posted yet) to keep your pet protected.

• Prevents Fatal Diseases: If they are not vaccinated, cats have the risk of contracting FVR, calicivirus, or panleukopenia, all of which can have very serious, long-term consequences or kill them.

• Contagious Viruses: They are extremely contagious viruses that spread from cat to cat very easily by direct contact, with food and water dishes, bedding, and even human clothing and hands.

• Protection for Indoor Cats: Although your cat is an indoor cat, he or she can still get infected with these viruses if carried by the humans, other household pets, or at the vet.

• Reduces Severity of Disease: In the improbable situation that a vaccinated cat contracts such viruses, the severity of the disease is significantly reduced, allowing for an accelerated recovery with lessened symptoms.

• Contributes to Herd Immunity: Large-scale vaccination prevents the general spread of infectious feline diseases within the population of cats, protecting both home and stray cats.

Unless the kittens, geriatric cats, and immunocompromised cats receive timely immunization, they are more likely to develop severe complications and the FVRCP vaccine is a key part of responsible pet ownership.

The recommended FVRCP vaccine schedule safeguards your cat against developing good immunity in their younger years and for long-term protection for their lifetime.

For Kittens:

• First Dose: To begin establishing immunity, administer the first dosage around 6-8 weeks of age.

• Booster shots: Every 3-4 weeks till the kitten is 16-20 weeks old.

• The final booster: is given at one year of age to provide long-term immunity.

Regarding mature cats:

• Previously immunized cats: A booster vaccination is recommended every 1-3 years, according to the veterinarian's recommendation.

• Unvaccinated or Unknown Vaccination History: Require two initial injections 3-4 weeks apart, then regular boosters as recommended by the vet.

It is essential to maintain this regimen to keep your feline friend healthy and free from these avoidable diseases.

Also, read-  Dog Vaccination Made Easy: A Complete Care Guide  

The FVRCP vaccine is generally safe, but there are a few cats that may experience mild side effects after vaccination. The side effects are usually temporary and resolve on their own. However, cat owners should be aware of possible reactions:

• Lethargy: Your cat may also seem more than usually tired or like sleeping longer periods. This is due to their immune system working hard to build immunity for the contents of the vaccine. Lethargic behavior will also pass within a day or two.

• Mild Fever: Some cats have a common mild increase in body temperature after being vaccinated. They may want cooler spots to sleep or are less active and less playful. The fever would typically resolve by 24-48 hours.

• Swelling on the Site of Injection: A slight red lump or swelling where the vaccine has been administered may be present. It is a gentle reaction and an expected one that will have worn off within a few days. If it's persistent or becoming larger, contact your vet.

• Loss of Appetite: Your cat may experience some loss of appetite as it adjusts to the vaccine. To help stimulate the appetite, maintain your cat well hydrated and offer small but pleasant meals.

In exceptional instances, severe reactions may occur, requiring immediate veterinary attention:

• Vomiting and Diarrhea: Certain cats may experience gastrointestinal upset, at times leading to ongoing vomiting and diarrhea. If symptoms persist for over a few hours, call your veterinarian.

• Shortness of Breath: Signs to observe are shallow or rapid breathing, wheezing, coughing or trouble breathing. These may indicate a severe reaction that needs immediate medical attention.

• Swelling of the Face or Limbs: Swelling of the face, eyelids, lips, or limbs is a sign of an allergic reaction to the vaccine. Seek the advice of a veterinarian as soon as possible.

• Anaphylactic Shock: It is an extremely rare but life-threatening allergic reaction that can cause immediate collapse, salivation, extreme breathlessness, or blue gums. This has to be treated at once.

Additional Preventive Measures for Cat Health

• Parasite Prevention: Protect your cat from fleas, ticks, and intestinal worms by administering vet-recommended preventives regularly. Fleas and ticks can lead to skin infections, allergic dermatitis, and diseases, whereas worms can lead to gastrointestinal disease, malnutrition, and debilitation. Indoor as well as outdoor cats require parasite control every month.

• Well-Nourished Diet: Feed your cat a well-balanced, high-quality diet that will keep them in their best health. Choose  food  with animal-based proteins, essential fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals to support their immune system, maintain them at a healthy weight, and maintain their coat in a shiny condition. Don't feed them human food or low-quality commercial foods that will lack essential nutrients.

• Annual Check-Ups with the Vet: Schedule frequent check-ups with your veterinarian once a year to monitor your cat's health, measure their weight, search for early signs of disease, and keep vaccines up to date. If you live in Bangalore you can visit Supertails+ Clinic .  This is Bengaluru’s first pet clinic with Fear-Free Certified Vets, we provide expert guidance on vaccinations and health checks. Regular check-ups also allow for the early discovery of long-term conditions such as kidney disease, diabetes, and arthritis, allowing for appropriate treatment.

• Dental Hygiene: Keeping the teeth of your cat clean is important to their health. Brush your cat's teeth every few weeks with cat toothpaste, give them dental treats, and have them cleaned professionally at the vet as needed. Not keeping their teeth clean can cause gum disease, bad breath, and serious infections that can destroy other parts of their body.

• Litter Box Cleanliness: Get the litter box as fresh and odor-free as you can by cleaning it daily and changing litter frequently. Dirty litter boxes can lead to infection, stress, and issues such as inappropriate urination. Multiple litter boxes in large homes with many cats can prevent territorial fights.

• Hydration & Clean Water : Give your cat an easily accessible source of fresh, clean water at all times to prevent dehydration and urinary tract issues. Cats are prone to kidney disease and bladder issues, and having an easily accessible source of water along with wet food can maintain the urinary system in good health. Learn about the  Best Hydration Tips for Cats  to prevent dehydration.

FVRCP vaccine is an essential component of your cat's well-being routine, offering protection against three diseases in cats that can be deadly. If your cat has the life of your outdoor explorer or a cozy indoor companion, regular shots are crucial to protect against infection and long-term wellness.

By sticking to an appropriate vaccination schedule, you are strengthening your kitten's immune system and giving it the best chance of a long, healthy, and happy life. Regular vet check-ups, timely booster injections, and preventive treatments keep them secure as they grow. A vaccinated kitten is a healthy, active, and cheerful companion, poised to share a lifetime of affection and adventure with you.

1. What is the FVRCP vaccine for?

The FVRCP shot protects against Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis, Calicivirus, and Panleukopenia, three extremely contagious and lethal diseases. These illnesses can cause severe respiratory disease, ulcers, fever, vomiting, and, in the case of panleukopenia, a very high mortality in unvaccinated cats. Through vaccination of your cat, you are significantly reducing his or her risk of acquiring these fatal diseases.

2. Is there a side effect to the FVRCP vaccine?

Most cats have mild side effects such as transient lethargy, slight fever, or swelling in the injection site, which also resolve within 24-48 hours. Rarely, some cats experience severe reactions such as vomiting, difficulty breathing, or facial swelling, which should be treated promptly by a veterinarian. However, benefits of vaccination are far superior compared to the very low risk of side effects.

3. Does the FVRCP vaccine need indoor cats?

Yes, indoor cats still need the FVRCP vaccine because the viruses can be introduced into the household on human hands, shoes, clothing, or other animals. In addition, if an indoor cat should ever escape or need to be boarded, they could become exposed to the contagious illnesses. The best way for their immunity is by being vaccinated, regardless of living conditions.