Cat & Dog Vaccinations

The Rabies Virus

Rabies is a virus that affects the central nervous system, which includes the brain and spinal cord. Secreted in saliva, one bite from an infected animal is all it takes to spread the infection to dogs and cats. Rabies is extremely deadly, often becoming fatal once outward signs begin to show. These signs include:

• Aggression or fearfulness
• Seizures
• Heavy drooling
• Trouble swallowing
• Difficulty walking/staggering
• Collapse
• Paralysis

Because treatment of rabies is virtually impossible, it’s essential that you keep your pet vaccinated against this disease.

Parvovirus (Parvo)

Parvo affects puppies and unvaccinated dogs. It is highly contagious and generally spread by contact with contaminated feces, direct dog-to-dog contact, and even contact with contaminated surfaces including food and water bowls, kennels, leashes, and human hands. Parvo targets the stomach and intestines, causing symptoms such as:

• Vomiting and/or diarrhea
• Bloody diarrhea
• Lethargy
• Loss of appetite
• Abdominal bloating
• Abnormally low or high body temperature

Parvo must be treated quickly. Vomiting and diarrhea can lead to dehydration and septic shock. Parvo can be treated with a steady supply of fluids, antibiotics, and other medicine to support your pet’s immune system until they are strong enough to combat the infection.

Canine Distemper

Distemper is a highly contagious and dangerous virus that affects the nervous, respiratory, and gastrointestinal systems in puppies and dogs. Sneezing and coughing among dogs can spread this disease quickly, making kennels, dog parks, and other areas where animals are in close quarters a major risk. Distemper’s symptoms include:

• Fever
• Lethargy
• Coughing
• Loss of appetite
• Runny nose
• Head tilt
• Muscle twitches
• Seizures

Distemper is often fatal and even if treated, can leave survivors with permanent damage to their nervous system.

Feline Leukemia

Feral cats can spread leukemia to household pets with a bite or even just a sneeze. The virus can also be shed in saliva, urine, and feces. Since outdoor cats are far more at risk of becoming infected than indoor cats, we generally recommend leukemia vaccine boosters for outdoor cats only.

Signs a cat is infected with leukemia:

• Upper respiratory infection
• Fever
• Diarrhea
• Weight loss, loss of appetite
• Weakness/lethargy
• Difficulty breathing
• A dull coat