05/22/2026
Vaccines are one of the most important tools we have to help protect cats from serious and contagious diseases, and they remain important well beyond kittenhood.
Viruses like feline herpesvirus and calicivirus are extremely common in the cat population, and many cats exposed early in life may carry them long term. During times of stress, illness, boarding, travel, or environmental changes, flare ups can occur and lead to symptoms such as sneezing, congestion, eye irritation, oral inflammation, and decreased appetite. While vaccines may not completely prevent infection in every case, they help reduce severity of illness, decrease viral shedding, and support a healthier immune response.
Rabies vaccination is also extremely important, not only because it is legally required by the state of Florida, but because rabies is a fatal disease that can affect both animals and humans. Even indoor cats can potentially be exposed through situations such as bats entering the home or accidental escapes outdoors.
Keeping cats current on rabies vaccination also helps protect them in situations involving bites or possible exposure incidents. In many cases, vaccine status significantly affects how these situations must legally and medically be handled.
We also commonly discuss the FeLV (Feline Leukemia Virus) vaccine. FeLV vaccination is considered core for kittens because younger cats are especially vulnerable to infection. In adults, FeLV vaccination becomes more lifestyle based and is commonly recommended for cats that go outdoors, have contact with cats of unknown status, or may have potential exposure risks. Some owners also elect to continue FeLV vaccination for added protection if they travel with their cats, take them outdoors on walks, or simply want coverage in case of an unexpected escape.
At our clinic, we use non adjuvanted vaccines because they are specifically designed for cats and are associated with a lower risk of vaccine related inflammation and reactions. Vaccine selection matters 🐱
Vaccination is one of the simplest and most effective ways we can help protect cats throughout their lives💉
