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This content has been automatically translated from Ukrainian.
If you have a cat — a purring companion that warms your feet and watches you from the windowsill — it is important to care not only about treats and toys. For your fluffy friend to be truly healthy, they need timely vaccinations. Even if the cat never goes outside, this does not guarantee safety: some viruses and bacteria can "visit" along with your shoes, clothing, or through contact with other animals, for example, at the veterinary clinic.
What vaccinations do cats need in Ukraine, at what age should they be given, and why is vaccination not a formality, but real protection? Let's break it down point by point.
Mandatory vaccinations for cats in Ukraine
In Ukraine, only vaccination against rabies is legally mandatory, but veterinarians strongly recommend also vaccinating against a number of other dangerous diseases. Here is a list of the main ones:
1. Rabies
Mandatory vaccination. Rabies is a deadly viral disease that is transmitted to humans through bites from infected animals. Even indoor cats that do not go outside can be at risk. Vaccination is done annually, starting from three months of age.
❗ If you plan to travel with your cat, you will not be allowed to cross the border without this vaccination.
2. Calicivirus
Recommended as a basic vaccination. This virus causes fever, runny nose, mouth ulcers, and respiratory complications. It is transmitted through the air. Highly contagious. The vaccine is administered as part of a combination injection.
3. Viral rhinotracheitis (feline herpesvirus)
Also included in the combination vaccine. Symptoms are similar to a cold: sneezing, tearing, fever, cough. It can lead to chronic respiratory problems, especially in kittens.
4. Panleukopenia (feline distemper)
Very important vaccination. An extremely dangerous disease that affects the gastrointestinal tract and the immune system. Survival without vaccination is low, especially in young animals. Vaccination is done together with calicivirus and herpesvirus.
When to vaccinate your cat?
- The first vaccinations are given to kittens at 8–9 weeks of age.
- Revaccination is done after 3–4 weeks.
- At 12 weeks and older — rabies vaccination.
- Thereafter — annual booster vaccinations with the combination vaccine + rabies.
Why is it important to vaccinate even an "indoor" cat?
- You can bring viruses on your shoes or clothing.
- If the cat accidentally escapes or comes into contact with other animals (for example, at the vet clinic) — it is vulnerable.
- A vaccinated cat gets sick less often, and if it does get sick — it has a milder course.
- Many diseases are transmitted without direct contact — through the air or objects.
Documents and vaccination records
After each vaccination, the veterinarian records the information in the animal's veterinary passport: name of the vaccine, date, signature, and stamp. This document is needed for:
- traveling abroad,
- participating in exhibitions,
- hospitalizing the animal in a clinic or hotel.
Regular vaccination is a basic step towards a long and healthy life for your cat. Better one injection than long treatment and pain. If you are unsure which vaccines your pet needs — consult a veterinarian. They will suggest the best vaccination schedule according to the age, health condition, and lifestyle of the animal.
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