As a responsible cat parent, it’s essential to be aware of the potential health conditions that your beloved feline friend can get. Many illnesses can affect your cat, with some being more dangerous than others. One such life-threatening condition is rabies.
Rabies is a serious, often fatal viral disease that can affect all mammals — cats are no exception. But thanks to advancements in medical technology, it’s now a preventable health condition. Giving your feline friend a cat rabies vaccine can help protect them against this dangerous disease.
In this guide, PetPal will help you understand the cat rabies vaccine and explore its schedule, cost, and potential side effects.
Cat Rabies Vaccine: The Essentials
The cat rabies vaccine is a preventative measure against the rabies virus. It works by training your cat’s immune system to recognize and fight against the rabies virus.
The vaccine contains a small amount of inactivated or weakened rabies virus, which stimulates your cat’s immune system to produce antibodies that will fight off the virus should your cat ever be exposed to it.
The cat rabies vaccine is a core vaccine, which means that vets recommend all cats should get it. This is because rabies is quick to spread to other animals and can even affect humans.
Now, you may be thinking, “But my cat is strictly an indoor cat. Surely, they’re safe!” However, rabies-infected animals can sometimes sneak into houses, and even the most pampered indoor kitty can escape outside. So, the risk, however small, just isn’t worth taking.
Rabies Vaccine Schedule for Cats
The rabies vaccine isn’t a one-time thing for cats. Vets usually administer it in a series of two shots — an initial vaccination followed by a booster shot.
The initial rabies vaccination is usually given to kittens when they are about 12 weeks old. Then, the first booster is given a year after the initial vaccination. Subsequent boosters are typically given every one to three years, depending on the type of vaccine used.
It’s crucial to stick to this schedule because it ensures your cat will be protected enough against the deadly rabies virus.
How Much Does the Cat Rabies Vaccine Cost?
The cost of the rabies vaccine can vary widely based on lots of different factors, including your location, the type of clinic, and whether the shot is bundled with other services. On average, you can expect to pay between PHP 350 and PHP 600 for a rabies vaccination. For a list of PetPal’s vaccine prices, you can check out this post:
But this is a small price to pay for your feline friend’s long-term protection — and the safety of your family!
If you’re looking for convenience, consider booking home vaccinations with PetPal. Our partner vets can provide your cat with the necessary vaccines right at your doorstep.
Are There Any Side Effects?
Like all vaccines, the rabies vaccine can cause side effects in some cats. Common side effects include mild fever, sluggishness, loss of appetite, and swelling or discomfort at the injection site. However, these side effects are usually temporary and resolve themselves shortly.
In rare cases, cats can have an allergic reaction to the vaccine, which can cause symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, and difficulty breathing. If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s important to talk to a vet right away.
But even though there are potential side effects, avoiding the vaccine is not a viable option, considering that rabies is a fatal disease with no cure. The side effects are generally rare, and the benefits of vaccination far outweigh the risks.
The Takeaway
The cat rabies vaccine is incredibly important in preventing the spread of a dangerous disease that can threaten your cat’s health as well as your family’s health. It’s an essential part of responsible pet ownership and can help ensure your furry friend lives a long, healthy, and happy life.
Protect your cat’s health by booking a home vet visit with PetPal! Our friendly and professional partner vets can do check-ups and vaccinations right at your home — download the PetPal app from the Play Store or App Store to schedule a visit today!
