What Vaccinations Does My Pet Need?

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Is your dog or cat current on their shots and vaccinations? Vaccines protect your pet from the diseases that plague animals that have not been properly vaccinated and keep them healthy and strong. 

Core vaccines are the ones that are of the utmost importance to your pet based on the mortality rates from the disease and the potential for transmission to other pets and humans. Rabies is the deadliest disease and is highly contagious. Dogs and cats have their own species-appropriate vaccines.  

No pet parent should lose their furry friend to a preventable disease, and vaccines will safeguard your animal companion. In this article, you will learn more about what vaccinations your pet needs to stay with you for a long time. 

Why Rabies Vaccines Are The Most Important 

Laws governing rabies vacations for pets vary in each state. Some states require shots for each year, while others may be every three years. Almost every state requires proof of rabies vaccination. Rabies is lethal for animals and humans. It is a zoonotic disease, meaning the infection can be passed between animals and people. 

This deadly disease is why it is so important not to allow your cat outdoors unless they are strictly supervised. If your cat comes in contact with wildlife that carries the disease, that animal can pass it on to your cat. Most states mandate rabies vaccinations for dogs and cats. Some wildlife can commonly carry rabies: 

• Bats
• Foxes
• Skunks
• Raccoons

Of course, this does not automatically mean that every bat, fox, skunk, or raccoon has rabies. It is just advisable not to allow your dog or cat to be near wildlife to prevent infection. 

Core Vaccines 

According to AAHA, “core vaccines are recommended for all dogs and cats regardless of lifestyle unless there is a specific health reason not to vaccinate.” Rabies is the only vaccine that is required by law. It is best to follow your veterinarian’s guidelines for vaccine schedules. Core vaccines are different for dogs and cats:

Core Vaccines for Dogs

• Rabies 
• Distemper 
• Parvovirus
• Parainfluenza
• Canine hepatitis adenovirus

For most vaccinations, the initial shots are administered between six and sixteen weeks of age. Another immunization should be given one year later. Distemper, parvovirus, and adenovirus can be fatal to dogs. Vaccinations are imperative to prevent these illnesses. Canine rabies vaccine schedules are determined by state rules. 

Core Vaccines for Cats 

• Rabies 
• Calicivirus 
• Feline leukemia virus 
• Panleukopenia (feline distemper)
• Feline herpes (viral rhinotracheitis) 

The vaccines for dogs and cats may differ, except for the rabies vaccine. However, the age at which vaccines are administered is the same for both species, between six and sixteen weeks of age. Feline distemper and feline leukemia virus are especially dangerous to cats. Vaccinations can prevent these illnesses. Again, check your state laws for rules about feline rabies vaccinations.

Non-Core Vaccines 

Non-core inoculations are not mandatory for all dogs and cats. The administration of these vaccinations should be determined by your pet’s lifestyle, the state and area where you live, and your pet’s individual risk. Dogs and cats have their own non-core vaccinations:

Non-Core Vaccines for Dogs

• Leptospira 
• Canine influenza virus
• Borrelia burgdorferi (canine Lyme disease) 
• Bordetella brocnchiseptica (canine parainfluenza virus)
• Crotalus atrox (Western diamondback rattlesnake) 

If your dog spends a lot of time around other pups, you may want to consider canine influenza and canine parainfluenza vaccines for your canine companion. If you live in an area that is near the woods or has a lot of ticks, your dog would benefit from a vaccination against canine Lyme disease. Talk to your vet about the guidelines for these vaccines. 

Non-Core Vaccinations for Cats: 

• Chlamydia felis 
• Dermatophytosis 
• Feline infectious peritonitis 
• Feline immunodeficiency virus 
• Bordetella brocnchiseptica (kennel cough)

 Cornell Feline Health Center explains the administration of non-core vaccinations for cats. “should be based on your cat’s lifestyle, age, health status, exposure to other cats, vaccine history, and sometimes medications your cat is being treated with.” 

If your cat spends time outside, they are more susceptible to parasites and diseases and will likely need these vaccines. Discuss what non-core vaccines would be appropriate for your feline companion with your vet.  

How Do Vaccines Work? 

Vaccines allow your pet’s immune system to recognize and combat disease-causing factors. It encourages the immune system’s production of antibodies to eradicate these disease-causing agents, helping to prevent or decrease the severity of the illness.

The American Veterinary Medical Association says vaccines can improve your dog or cat’s quality of life. Companion animal vaccines have become prevalent within the past century and have been successful in “preventing diseases and the death of countless beloved pets.”  

Conclusion

Vaccines are crucial to your dog or cat’s health and well-being. The laws of each state govern rabies vaccines, and every pet should be vaccinated against this deadly disease. Core vaccines are essential for all pets, regardless of the circumstances involved. You can protect your pet against contagious diseases with these vaccinations.

The decisions about non-core vaccines should be based on your pet’s lifestyle. Non-core vaccines can be just as important depending on the individual animal’s needs. Always be sure to ask your vet questions about what is right for your pet. Make sure your furry companion is properly protected, as vaccines can save your pet’s life. 

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