Do indoor cats need vaccines?

Indoor cats, despite their limited exposure to the outdoors, can still benefit from certain vaccinations to safeguard their health. One such vaccination is for rabies, a deadly virus that can affect animals and humans alike.

Apart from vaccinations, there are other preventive measures that cat owners can take to protect their pets from diseases. Regular veterinary check-ups, flea and tick control, and proper nutrition are all essential for maintaining your cat's overall health.

Rabies is transmitted through the saliva of infected animals, and while indoor cats have a lower risk of encountering such animals, it's always best to err on the side of caution. Regular rabies vaccinations can protect your cat and your family from potential harm.

Another important vaccination for indoor cats is the feline leukemia virus (FeLV) vaccine. FeLV is a contagious virus that can cause severe illness and even death in cats. It's spread through close contact with infected cats, including sharing food and water bowls or grooming tools.

Veterinarians often recommend vaccinating the entire household for selected diseases like FeLV and rabies if the risk of exposure is deemed significant. This is because even indoor cats can come into contact with infected animals through visitors or if they manage to escape outdoors.