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"It's too expensive!", "There is no point", "My cat doesn't fight", does this sound familiar? Why vaccinate your kitty some of you may ask? Just as us humans vaccinate ourselves from unwanted viruses, cats need this help too since they can't do it themselves! Here - I'll give you some examples of what the viruses are out there that your kitty could catch, and it will come at the price of your companion's life if untreated properly!

Feline Panleukopaenia (Enteritis) Virus
Panleukopaenia is caused by a feline parvovirus and spreads rapidly, causing a severe enteritis with a high mortality rate, especially in younger cats. Kittens are vaccinated at 9 and 12 weeks of age, than after a one year booster vaccination is recommended every two to three years.

Feline Calicivius and Herpes (Rhinotracheitis) Virus
These viruses cause the majority of upper respiratory infections, or 'snuffles', and can be spread by carrier cats. Vaccination will not provide total clinical immunity to the diseases, but will minimize the severity of upper respiratory infection. Re-vaccination intervals deend on risk factors (such as going into communal catteries).

Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV)
Feline AIDS is caused by infection with feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV). The prevalence of FIV in New Zealand is relatively high - studies suggest that 14% of cats, and up to 27% of unwell cats are infected with the virus. The primary route of virus transmission is through bite wound from an infected cat. The outdoor life that many New Zealand cats lead puts them more at risk of cat fight wounds and contracting the virus. The virus acts by suppressing the immune system.

Feline Chlamydia
This disease is part of the respiratory tract complex, and may be recommended for some cats (especially in cattery situations).

Feline Lukaemia Virus (FeLV)
The virus causes both neoplastic and non-neoplastic disorders. The immune system is depressed predisposng affected cats to other infections. FeLV is recognised as the most important infectious cause of mortality in cats worldwide. New Zealand is therefore something of an exception, as it is still uncommon here.

The Complete Cat Care Team have put together a great product, that covers everything from toilet training your kitty to looking after your senior cat!

The Complete Cat Health and Cat Care Resource!

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