There are various reasons why pet owners should make sure their pets have the required vaccinations. Puppies and kittens should receive their first shots during a wellness exam when they’re about four weeks of age. After the first vaccinations, dogs and cats should then have regular booster shots given by a Pet Vaccinations Overland Park KS area veterinarian. Read the questions and answers below to learn the importance of regular vaccinations for cats and dogs.
Q.) Why should dog and cat owners have their pets vaccinated regularly?
A.) Vaccinations keep pets healthier by preventing certain diseases and illnesses. Some of these diseases require lengthy treatments and hospital stays for pets, which can become expensive. In some cases, the pets are unable to recover even with treatments. Many facilities offering boarding and daycare for pets require the animals to be current on their vaccinations. Some city ordinances also make it mandatory that pets are vaccinated against rabies.
Q.) Can pets have health issues from getting a vaccination?
A.) Most pets do fine after getting their vaccinations, but there is a chance of minor side effects. Pets that have recently been vaccinated may have a loss of appetite, swelling at the site of the injection, or a low-grade fever. Some pets aren’t as active as normal the same day they get their vaccination. Pet owners should take the animal to the veterinarian if more serious side effects are noted, such as continual diarrhea, vomiting or swelling in the facial area.
Q.) What are some of the most common vaccinations for dogs and cats?
A.) Both dogs and cats should have regular vaccinations for rabies. Other common puppy and dog vaccinations include parvovirus, canine distemper, and canine adenovirus. Vaccinations most often recommended for kittens and cats include feline panleukopenia virus, feline herpesvirus, and feline calicivirus. Pet owners can speak with a pet vaccinations in Overland Park, KS area veterinarian to discuss the recommended vaccinations for each pet.
Dog and cat owners in Overland Park can stay current on their pet vaccinations by scheduling an appointment at the Cherokee Animal Clinic. This veterinary clinic provides various other pet services including wellness care, internal medicine, surgery, and emergency treatment.
