Pet Vaccinations

[Angel Esp, Digs, Sablegirl, Maxie & Mom]

Are pet vaccinations always safe?

[Eric Dunayer]

In general, they are. They are especially important to be given to puppies and kittens. There is some controversy about using them in older dogs and cats -- especially on a yearly basis. Many veterinarians are now measuring blood levels of antibodies against certain diseases and vaccinating only if these levels are deficient. I would discuss with your veterinarian exactly which vaccines are necessary for your pets.

[Angel Esp, Digs, Sablegirl, Maxie & Mom]

Thank you. The reason I am asking the question is because when I brought my 9 year old female kitty to the vet for her routine examination she had a lump in her stomach. When I brought her home after having received the vaccinations she collapsed. We brought her in for emergency treatment. It was discovered she had cancer. We fought a very hard fight but we lost her ten days later. I, of course, was devastated. She was my little girl. What I'm thinking is vaccinations should not be administered to pets whose system is compromised? I have a wonderful Vet and the emergency facility did all they could but I can't help feeling the vaccinations somehow poisoned her system. I just want to be very careful in the future as I have three additional pets, 2 kitties and one dog, and I want to be the best Mom I can be. Are there any reputable websites that I can peruse to further study the effects of vaccinations? My heart is still broken. Thank you for your help.

[Eric Dunayer]

I'm sorry to hear about your kitty.

Allergic reactions can happen. Fortunately they are rare but usually they can't be predicted the first time they happen. Vaccines are important for preventing some very serious diseases. Having seen too many puppies die from parvovirus and kittens from feline distemper, I think they have their place but, it is important to determine which vaccines are needed and when. I encourage every one to talk to their veterinarians about this before vaccinating.

[Angel Esp, Digs, Sablegirl, Maxie & Mom]

Thank you again. I just thought it was important to bring this topic to light. Angel Esp