Crack the vax code
DR PETER KIRKPATRICK deciphers the labels to explain what shots keep which diseases at bay
Triennial, C5, F3, FIV AIDS... these words and acronyms are a foreign language for many pet owners. The range of recommended vaccinations varies according to where you live, so if you have pets, you need to be aware of the diseases that are prevalent in your area.
The best way to educate yourself is to chat to your vet, and adjust your pet’s vaccination regime if necessary.
Below is a range of vaccines that your dog, cat or rabbit may need.
C3 Distemper virus, canine parvovirus and canine adenovirus (hepatitis)
These are known as core vaccinations, as these diseases are life-threatening and are highly contagious in all dogs, especially puppies and older dogs, as well as those who are immune-compromised. As a bare minimum, every dog should be vaccinated against these core diseases. C5 Distemper, parvovirus, hepatitis, bordetella and para-influenza virus
This vaccine guards against canine cough as well as these core diseases. Canine cough is an upper respiratory infection that can be contracted at puppy day care, kennels or group gatherings, such as in the park. While it is not life threatening, its symptoms are extremely unpleasant for dogs and their human families, and it is very contagious among canines.
C7 Distemper, parvovirus, hepatitis, bordetella, para-influenza, coronavirus and leptospirosis virus
Coronavirus is similar to parvovirus in its symptoms of vomiting and diarrhoea, and can very quickly become serious. Leptospirosis is passed on through infected soil, water and urine, and can be deadly to dogs, although it doesn’t always show symptoms. It is important to note that leptospirosis is zoonotic, meaning people can pick it up as well. This is a newer-generation vaccine that
“If your cat tests positive to FIV, chat to your vet about what measures to take”
protects against all the components of the C5 as well as these two. Now let’s take a look at vaccines for domestic cats. F3 Feline rhinotracheitis virus, feline calicivirus and panleucopenia virus
This shot is the cat version for core diseases that strike our feline friends. Rhinotracheitis and calicivirus affect the respiratory system, and they are especially damaging to kittens and cats that are immune-compromised. These respiratory diseases often cause lasting damage to the body. Panleucopenia is similar to parvovirus, and just as deadly. F5 Rhinotracheitis, calicivirus, panleucopenia, chlamydophila felis and leukaemia
Chlamydia and leukaemia are commonly prevented diseases included in the F5, alongside the core diseases. Chlamydia, a chronic respiratory infection, can haunt a cat for its whole life, while leukaemia (FELV) is one of the most widely seen causes of death in cats, and is often associated with FIV or cat AIDS.
F6 Rhinotracheitis, calicivirus, panleucopenia, chlamydophila felis, leukaemia and feline AIDS virus
This is the most complete coverage for a cat, and includes protection against
FIV – cat AIDS – as well as the above five components. As with human AIDS, FIV attacks the immune system, causing a number of lifelong health problems, as well as dramatically decreasing life expectancy. Once contracted, FIV cannot be cured or vaccinated against. This shot is recommended for cats who spend any length of time outdoors.
It’s also a good idea to test new cats brought into the household for FIV. If your cat tests positive, don’t panic – chat to your vet about what measures to take to protect the local cat population. Calicivirus in rabbits This virus is a horrible, debilitating disease that causes internal bleeding, so it is vital that you vaccinate your rabbits every year. Currently, there are three strains of various forms of the virus in Australia.
Animals age on average seven times faster than humans, so a lot can change in a year, and your pet should see a vet for an annual health check.
In many parts of Australia, the core vaccinations can now be given to your pet every three years, but an annual check-up and non-core vaccinations need to be done every year in all areas.
Remember, taking the right precautions can literally be a life saver for your pet.