Vaccinating dogs and cats is crucial in Thailand, where there are still reports of infections that are difficult to treat or have a high mortality rate. Vaccinations are necessary to prevent and reduce the severity of these diseases.
In this article, we will discuss:
Important infectious diseases in dogs and cats that currently have preventive vaccines, divided into: Core vaccines that require annual boosters and Optional vaccines for pets with low infection risk
Vaccination schedule for dogs and cats in their first year, which is the foundation for their good health
Vaccine allergic reactions that pet parents should be aware of to observe their pets after each vaccination, as allergic reactions can occur even with regularly administered vaccines
Important Infectious Diseases in Dogs
Essential Vaccine Schedule for Puppies in Their First Year
Other important information about vaccines for dogs
The 5-in-1 combination vaccine includes protection against distemper, parvovirus, leptospirosis, hepatitis, and parainfluenza
High-risk puppies can start the 5-in-1 vaccine at 6 weeks old, with a booster at 6 months. High-risk puppies include: Those who didn't receive colostrum from their mother or Those in areas with high risk of parvovirus or distemper
For dogs older than 16 weeks that have never been vaccinated, it's recommended to give two doses of each vaccine, 3-4 weeks apart, then annually
Optional vaccines:
Bordetella Bronchiseptica vaccine, given nasally or orally
Avoid bathing dogs for 7 days after vaccination
Important Infectious Diseases in Cats
Essential Vaccine Schedule for Kittens in Their First Year
Other important information about vaccines for cats
FeLV testing is recommended before the first FeLV vaccination
High-risk kittens can start the combined vaccine for panleukopenia and respiratory diseases at 6 weeks old, with a booster at 6 months. High-risk kittens include:
Those who didn't receive colostrum from their mother
Those in areas with high risk of panleukopenia
For cats older than 16 weeks that have never been vaccinated, it's recommended to give two doses of each vaccine, 3-4 weeks apart, then annually
Avoid bathing cats for 7 days after vaccination
While vaccines are crucial for protecting dogs and cats against severe diseases by stimulating their immune system, they can, like other medications, potentially cause allergic reactions. To help pet parents recognize these reactions promptly, we've compiled a list of potential allergic symptoms.
Vaccine Allergic Reactions in Dogs and Cats
Most allergic reactions appear within 30 minutes after vaccination. If you notice any of these symptoms, take your pet to a veterinarian immediately:
General symptoms: Vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, difficulty breathing
Severe symptoms: Visible swelling of the eyelids, face, throat, tongue, or genitals
Although these allergic reactions are rare, for safety, pet parents should closely observe their dogs and cats after vaccination. If any of the above abnormalities are noticed, seek veterinary care immediately.
Source : https://arakanimal.com/articles/dog-and-cat-vaccine
