Why might my veterinarian recommend vaccinating my cat against feline herpesvirus and feline calicivirus?
Experts believe that at one time or another almost all cats are exposed to feline herpesvirus and feline calicivirus – highly contagious diseases of the upper respiratory tract that can cause sneezing, nasal discharge, and conjuctivitis. Kittens, cats with weakened immune systems, and cats living in overcrowded, multicat situations are especially at risk. Infected cats often respond well to treatment, but they can continue to carry and shed the viruses, infecting other cats. So many veterinarians recommend vaccinating against these viruses. The vaccines are not one hundred percent effective at preventing disease, but they do lessen the severity of upper respiratory infections. – Dr.
