The release of the Feline Vaccination Guidelines by the American Association of Feline Practitioners/Academy of Feline Medicine has provided cat owners and breeders alike with new information about vaccinating their cats. It is important to note that we can no longer think in terms of a standard vaccination protocol for all cats. We must assess the relative risks for each cat, taking into account both individual and environmental factors, to make appropriate decisions.
The AAFP Guidelines have designated feline panleukopenia (FPV), feline viral rhinotracheitis (FHV-1), and feline calicivirus (FCV) as “core” vaccines necessary for all cats. For breeders, these core vaccines are likely the most important. Kittens must have adequate vaccination against these infectious diseases in order to survive kittenhood and to provide a sound basis for future health and vaccination decisions.
For the lowest risk group of kittens — those in single pet homes — vaccination at eight and 12 weeks of age is appropriate. However, catteries represent a higher-risk environment, especially if upper respiratory infection is endemic. In these situations, it is appropriate to vaccinate earlier. It is also important to ensure each kitten receives a final vaccination at 12 weeks of age or later in order to avoid maternal antibody interference.
Booster vaccinations should not be given more frequently than every two weeks, with an interval of three to four weeks being ideal. Using less than the full dose could result in inadequate production of immunity — each kitten should always receive a full dose.
Once a kitten receives the appropriate vaccinations in the first year of life, the first booster for all cats with the core vaccines should be one year after the last inoculation as a kitten. From this point, we cannot pick one protocol for all cats. Many cats — particularly retired spays and neuters — may be appropriate candidates for boosters every three years rather than every year. Cats being actively bred or shown may warrant more frequent boosters until retirement.
Regarding the FeLV vaccine — it is considered non-core and should only be administered to individuals at realistic risk of the disease. For many catteries, a regular testing policy for FeLV is preferable to vaccination alone. Regarding the FIP vaccine — there continues to be controversy surrounding its safety and efficacy, and its use must be made considering all factors involved.
Finally, accurate record-keeping is essential. Good records must be kept on the health status and vaccination history of each litter and each adult. Anyone administering vaccines should take care to record all pertinent information carefully, including any adverse reactions.