Basic vaccination protocol for cats and dogs

Just as with the human common cold, the virus that causes this upper respiratory tract infection is easily transmitted from one cat to another. This disease is easily spread between cats in close contact. Symptoms may take the form of moderate fever, loss of appetite, sneezing, eye and nasal discharge and coughing. Kittens are particularly affected, but this disease can be dangerous in any unprotected cat, as effective treatments are limited. Even if a cat recovers, it can remain a carrier for life.

This is caused by canine adenovirus type 1. The disease is transmitted among dogs by contact with secretions, such as saliva, infected urine or faeces. Its symptoms are similar to those of the early stages of distemper, causing liver failure, eye damage and breathing problems, the course of this disease can range from mild to fatal.

This virus attacks the intestinal system and can be fatal to puppies. Symptoms may develop quickly and can include vomiting, diarrhoea, dehydration, loss of appetite and depression. 

This bacterial disease is responsible for approximately 15 – 20% of all feline respiratory diseases. It is extremely contagious, especially in young kittens and the infection rate is very high. It causes a local infection of the mucus membranes of the eyes, but may also involve the lungs. Chlamydiosis can be transmitted to humans by direct contact.

Bordetella bronchiseptica is one of the major causes of upper respiratory infections in cats.  This is a highly contagious disease and is spread through close contact with other animals. We advise that your pets are vaccinated against this disease. In cats an intranasal vaccine is used.

This is an often fatal, hard-to-treat disease. It is highly contagious and is spread by discharges from the nose and eyes of infected dogs. Symptoms can include listlessness, fever, coughing, diarrhoea and vomiting, convulsions and paralysis. The distemper virus attacks many organs, including the nervous system, which may be permanently damaged, even if the dog recovers from the illness.

The feline leukaemia virus can result in a multitude of serious health problems for your cat. After initial exposure to the virus, a cat may show no symptoms of its presence for months, if not years, yet all the while infecting other cats. Testing is available to determine the FeLV status of your cat. We strongly advise that all cats are tested, and if negative, vaccinated against this extremely dangerous disease.

This virus is another major cause of upper respiratory tract infection in cats. Widespread and highly contagious, its symptoms of fever, ulcers and blisters on the tongue and pneumonia can range from mild to severe, depending on the strain of virus present. Once again, treatment of this disease can be difficult. Even if recovery does take place, a recovered cat can continue to infect other animals, as well as experience chronic sneezing and runny eyes.

This disease is caused by a virus so resistant; it can survive for up to one year outside a cat’s body. Therefore, the infection rates in unprotected cats are high and vaccination is the only way to protect them from this potentially fatal disease. Symptoms include listlessness, diarrhoea, vomiting, severe dehydration and fever. Treatment is extremely difficult, and even if recovery takes place for a period of time, an infected cat can spread the disease to other animals.

Just as with the human common cold, this respiratory tract infection is easily transmitted from one dog to another. The vaccination is imperative if your dog will come into contact with other dogs, e.g. obedience training, boarding at kennels, or playing in the park.

The disease is caused by various air-borne bacteria and viruses, including canine parainfluenza virus and canine adenovirus type 2. Bordetella bronchiseptica is one of the main causes of the disease and requires a separate vaccine. Symptoms of kennel cough is a dry, hacking cough.

This incurable and fatal disease affects the central nervous system of almost all mammals, including humans. It is spread through contact with the saliva of infected animals through bites or any breaks in the skin. Vaccinations against rabies is required by law.

The 5-in-1 and rabies vaccinations will need to be done every year. It’s best to check in with your vet as some rabies vaccines only need to be repeated every three years. Some vets may also suggest additional vaccinations, depending on your pet’s specific circumstances.

Missing a vaccination doesn't necessarily mean your dog is unprotected, but it's important to speak to your vet as soon as possible. They can assess your dog's vaccination history and advise whether a booster or a revised vaccination schedule is needed. By getting your dog's vaccinations back on track, you can help keep them protected and healthy.

Your cat’s 4-in-1 and rabies vaccinations will need to be kept current. It's always a good idea to speak to your vet, as some rabies vaccines may only require a booster every three years. Your vet may also suggest additional vaccinations based on your pet's specific circumstances.

Once your pet has been vaccinated it can take up to five days before the immune system produces antibodies. Full protection against diseases can take up to 14 days.

According to pet insurance policy requirements in South Africa, you need to keep your pet's vaccinations up to date. Please refer to the general conditions of cover for pet insurance or your insurer's vaccination brochure for a comprehensive summary of the required vaccines.

• First vaccination: 6 weeks – 5 in 1

• Second vaccination: 9 weeks – 5 in 1

• Third vaccination: 12 weeks – 5 in 1, rabies, kennel cough (for dogs staying in kennels)

• Fourth vaccination: 16 weeks of age – rabies

• Booster: 12 months – 5 in 1

  Please check in with your vet on the latest puppy vaccination requirements.

Yes. Even if your cat spends most or all of its time indoors, vaccinations are still important. Certain viruses and diseases can be brought into your home on clothing, shoes, hands, or by other pets. Vaccinations help protect your cat from potentially serious illnesses and can help prevent the spread of disease.

• First vaccination: 6-8 weeks – 4-in-1
• Second vaccination: 12 weeks – 4-in-1, rabies, snuffles (for cats staying at catteries)
• Third vaccination: 16 weeks – 4-in-1 and rabies
• Booster: 12 months – 4-in-1, rabies and snuffles (for cats staying at cattery's)

The cost of vaccinating your pet can vary depending on factors such as your pet's age, the vaccinations required, and your vet's fees. Some vaccinations may form part of a puppy or kitten vaccination course, while others may be administered as routine boosters throughout your pet's life. The best way to get an accurate cost estimate is to speak to your vet, who can recommend the appropriate vaccinations for your pet's age, lifestyle, and individual needs.