Feline Vaccination
We recommend that kittens begin a primary vaccination course at 9 weeks of age, with the second vaccination 3-4 weeks after, when the kitten is at least 12 weeks old. From then on, it is advisable to booster your cat each year. The main diseases we vaccinate against are listed below.
This disease is highly contagious and is transmitted through the oro-faecal route, either by direct contact or by environmental contamination. If infected whilst in the uterus, it can result in foetal death, resorption or abortion. Infection in the late stage of gestation can result in immune suppression and cerebellar hypoplasia. Clinical signs in older kittens range from mild diarrhoea to more serious signs resulting in death.
Cat flu is an upper respiratory tract disease caused mainly by feline calicivirus (FCV) and feline herpesvirus (FHV-1), although other organisms may also be involved. Most of these organisms are transmitted by aerosol and/or direct contact of eyes, noses and mouths. Signs include sneezing, eye and nose discharge, conjunctivitis, high temperature, loss of appetite and salivation.
FeLV is transmitted by cat-to- cat contact, with the virus being excreted in saliva, urine, faeces and milk. Biting, licking and grooming are all means of virus transfer. We advise vaccinating for FeLV in all multi-cat households, and in cats which go outdoors.
Cat Neutering
We recommend spaying (females) or castrating (males) your cat from 5-6 months old. In female cats, this prevents unwanted litters and reduces the risk of mammary tumours. In males cats, castrating can reduce the risk of catching Feline Immunodefeciency Virus (FIV), an incurable viral disease spread by saliva, commonly via bite wounds whilst fighting. Castrating males may reduce them straying away.
Flea and Worm Treatment
We advise using routine treatment to prevent against fleas, ticks and worms. Fleas and ticks are carried by wild animals such as hedgehogs and deer and other untreated pets. They are easily spread to your pet when they are outside and can be brought into the house on clothing. Due to their life cycle, fleas are notoriously difficult to get rid off once they are brought into the house. Preventative healthcare with routine treatment can help prevent infestation. Ticks are known to spread blood-borne diseases such as Lyme's disease.
