Pet diseases that can be prevented through vaccination. Pet vaccinations are an integral part of keeping your cat or dog healthy. Many of the worst diseases that can affect our furry companions are controlled by vaccinations that are given on a routine basis. Here are just some of the diseases that are kept at bay by simple injections:
Dog Vaccinations
- Parvovirus in Dogs Parvo is one of the deadliest diseases among canines. The disease can cause gastrointestinal issues, cardiac symptoms and dehydration in young puppies. Parvo proves to be about 80 percent fatal in young puppies, making it imperative that all puppies are properly vaccinated.
- Distemper in Dogs Distemper is a disease that results in anorexia, a low white blood cell count, runny nose, eye discharge, and inflammation of the brain and spinal cord. Dogs that survive distemper are left with life-long symptoms. These include problems with the teeth, thickening of the paw pads, and life-threatening disorders of the nervous system.
- Rabies in Dogs Rabies is perhaps the most dangerous disease that a dog can carry. The disease is zoonotic, meaning that it is transmissible to humans. The rabies virus enters the brain and wreaks havoc on the nervous system. Once the disease has progressed to the brain, it is fatal within just days.
Cat Vaccinations
- Panleukopenia in Cats Panleukopenia, commonly called FPV, is a disease similar to parvo in dogs. Cats infected with FPV will display a low white blood cell count, causing a compromised immune system. Symptoms of FPV include vomiting, fever and bloody diarrhea. The disease is highly contagious and often fatal.
- Respiratory Disease Complex in Cats Respiratory diseases are common in cats, particularly those who have been born outdoors or have lived in shelters for extended periods. There are a variety of respiratory diseases that affect felines. Vaccination against respiratory illness is the first defense your kitten or cat has against bronchitis and other respiratory ailments.
- Rabies in Cats Rabies in cats, like in dogs, affects the nervous system. Rabies in cats can take up to a month to fully develop. Once rabies is detected, it is often past the point of treatment. The only true protection against this fatal disease is inoculation.
The above vaccines are considered core vaccines. This means that they are recommended for every dog and cat, regardless of age or location. Other vaccines, called non-core vaccines, may be recommended by your veterinarian depending on your region, the current health status of your pet, and your pets’ risk factors.
Vaccines are typically given to puppies and kittens at three-week intervals, starting between six and eight weeks of age. If you’ve brought a new pet into your home, your veterinarian will recommend a vaccination schedule that is appropriate for your pet. It is strongly advised that you follow your veterinarian’s recommendations in order to keep your pet healthy.