Core Vaccinations

Core Vaccines

FVRCP = feline viral rhinotracheitis + calcivirus + panleukemia

rhinotracheitis a.k.a. feline herpes-1

symptoms sneezing, nasal discharge, swelling of the conjunctiva of the eye, discharge from eye, sometimes corneal ulcers, drooling, rarely mouth ulcers, fever, severe loss of appetite, severe lethargy, can cause abortion if cat is pregnant. 

calcivirus

symptoms nasal discharge, sometimes sneezing, discharge from eye, oral ulcers common, pneumonia, joint and muscle pain, may develop ulcers on paws, sometimes fever, mild loss of appetite and lethargy

panleukemia a.k.a. feline distemper

symptoms first, sudden high fever, lethargy, loss of appetite, then vomiting, diarrhea (possibly bloody), and dehydration; seizures possible.

All three of the diseases prevented by the FVRCP combination vaccine are caused by viruses.  Since there are very few anti-viral drug options, the most anyone can do to treat these diseases is supportive care--this means to treat each symptom as much as possible, and keep the cat hydrated and comfortable in order to give the cat's immune system a chance to fight the virus.  Thus, this combination vaccine is very helpful in preventing serious health problems in your cat or kitten. 

Rabies Vaccine This vaccine is required by law.  There are some rabies vaccine brands that are specified "3-year duration" vaccines, and you can request that your vet use one of these vaccines on your cat.  While these vaccines do not differ from the typical rabies vaccine in content, if you have documentation that your cat has been vaccinated with the 3-year rabies vaccination, some states will allow you to only vaccinate every 3 years after the 2nd rabies booster at 14 months**, thus minimizing possible negative reactions to the rabies vaccination.  

Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV) This vaccine is considered a core vaccine if your cat goes outside, or if they are exposed to outside cats.  

symptoms cancer, immunodeficiency, symptoms possible for almost every body system, including loss of appetite, fever, weight loss, weakness, neurological problems such as blindness or seizures, and swollen lymph nodes, as well as a variety of cancers