Feline Panleukopenia, or Feline Distemper

 

This a serious gastrointestinal disease. Symptoms resemble Parvovirus in dogs and include fever, lethargy, vomiting, diarrhea, dehydration, loss of appetite, miscarriage in pregnant cats, and nervous system damage in newborns. It is highly contagious and commonly fatal in non-vaccinated cats. Panleukopenia is rare in properly vaccinated cats. 

Feline Herpesvirus-1 (Feline Rhinotracheitis Virus) and Feline Calicivirus

 

This causes respiratory illness. Non-vaccinated cats may get severely ill or even die. These viruses are extremely contagious. Vaccination gives incomplete protection, but vaccinated cats get only mild symptoms if they get sick at all. 

Rabies

 

This is an incurable disease of the nervous system that is nearly always fatal. Worse yet, it is transmitted between most animal species, including humans. Although rabies transmission requires direct body fluid contact, even indoor pets can be at risk since sick wild animals may enter homes. Regular rabies vaccination is mandated by law in many areas. 

Feline Leukemia (FeLV)

 

This is transmitted by close, direct contact between cats, so vaccination is most important for cats that go outside or otherwise contact potentially infected cats. Cats should be tested for FeLV before vaccination, since the vaccine doesnt help cats that already have the virus. Two doses of vaccine are given 3-4 weeks apart, as early as eight weeks of age. Annual revaccination is recommended. Feline Leukemia (FeLV) is an incurable immunosuppressive disease that causes cancers and makes cats extremely vulnerable to other illnesses. Although infected cats can remain healthy for several years, it is eventually fatal in most cases. 

Feline Leukemia/FIV Combination Test 

We recommend annual testing if your cat is outdoors at anytime or if you are introducing a new cat to your household. We offer this testing and it takes only ten minutes for results. In the case that the result is negative we offer vaccines to protect your cat against Feline Leukemia.  

Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV) is another incurable immunosuppressive disease, sometimes called Feline AIDS. Infected cats often appear healthy for years, but many suffer from chronic recurrent illnesses and can develop cancers. Cats can die from the FIV virus, much as humans can died from HIV. FIV is usually transmitted by cat bites. Therefore, the best prevention is to keep the cat away from outdoor stray cats or cats know to be positive for the FIV virus. 


Fecal Testing 

Annual fecal testing is recommended for your pet. 
A fecal test checks for intestinal parasites, microscopic protozoa, and occult blood. May parasites, particularly protozoan parasites, are not prevented through traditional "wormers" and most parasites can't be seen without the aid of the microscope. Parasites affect your pet's health, and can put your family at risk in some cases!  

 

Dental Care

 

Pets have teeth too! The only difference with pets is that they are not able to brush and floss their own teeth. Good oral health is an important part of good general health for your pet. By the time most cats are 1 year old, they have some degree of gingivitis. Prevention is the key to maintaining healthy teeth and gums.