Do Cats Need Shots Before Getting Fixed?

As a responsible cat owner, it’s essential to know whether cats need shots before getting fixed. This article answers all your questions on the topic.

Cats are adorable creatures that bring joy and companionship to their owners. However, taking care of them requires more than just feeding and playing with them. It is essential to ensure their health and well-being, which includes getting them vaccinated and spayed/neutered. In this article, we will answer the question, “do cats need shots before getting fixed?” and provide you with the essential information you need to know as a cat owner.

Table of Contents

What Does “Getting Fixed” Mean for Cats?

Vaccinations before spaying can prevent your cat from getting sick.

“Getting fixed” is a term used to refer to the process of spaying or neutering cats. Spaying is the process of removing a female cat’s ovaries and uterus, while neutering is the process of removing a male cat’s testicles. The primary goal of spaying/neutering is to prevent cats from reproducing, which helps reduce the number of stray cats and lowers the risk of certain health problems.

Spaying/neutering also has other benefits, such as reducing aggressive behavior, preventing certain types of cancer, and reducing the risk of urinary tract infections. The procedure is generally safe, but it does come with some risks, such as bleeding, infection, and adverse reactions to anesthesia.

Now that we know what “getting fixed” means let’s discuss the essential shots that cats need.

What Shots Do Cats Need?

Cats need to receive several shots to protect them from various diseases. These shots are usually given in a series when the cat is a kitten, and then they are given booster shots throughout the cat’s life to maintain immunity. The essential shots that cats need include:

FVRCP: This is a combination vaccine that protects cats against three diseases: feline viral rhinotracheitis, calicivirus, and panleukopenia. These diseases can cause respiratory infections, fever, vomiting, and diarrhea.
Rabies: This vaccine protects cats against rabies, a viral disease that affects the nervous system. Rabies is fatal and can also be transmitted to humans.
Feline Leukemia (FeLV): This vaccine protects cats against feline leukemia, a viral disease that affects the immune system. FeLV can cause anemia, weight loss, and cancer. It is especially important for cats that go outdoors or live with other cats.

In the next section, we will discuss why cats need shots before getting fixed and the risks associated with not getting them.

What Shots Do Cats Need?

As mentioned earlier, cats need several shots to protect them from various diseases. The FVRCP vaccine is usually given to kittens at 6-8 weeks of age, with booster shots given every 3-4 weeks until they are 16 weeks old. After that, booster shots are given every 1-3 years, depending on the cat’s lifestyle and overall health.

Rabies vaccines are required by law in most states and are usually given when the kitten is 12-16 weeks old. Booster shots are given every 1-3 years, depending on the cat’s age and overall health.

FeLV vaccines are recommended for cats that go outdoors or live with other cats. The vaccine is given to kittens at 8-12 weeks of age, with booster shots given every 1-2 years.

It is essential to follow the recommended vaccination schedule to ensure that your cat is fully protected against these diseases. Regular check-ups with your veterinarian can help you stay on top of your cat’s vaccination schedule.

Why Do Cats Need Shots Before Getting Fixed?

Cats need to receive their shots before getting fixed because the procedure can put them at risk of infection. Spaying/neutering involves making incisions in the cat’s skin, which can potentially expose them to bacteria and viruses. Having up-to-date vaccinations can help protect cats from these risks.

Not getting shots before the procedure can also increase the risk of complications during and after the surgery. For example, if a cat is infected with a disease like feline viral rhinotracheitis, it can increase the risk of respiratory complications during the surgery. Similarly, if a cat is infected with FeLV, it can increase the risk of bleeding during the surgery.

Getting shots before the procedure has several benefits. It can help reduce the risk of infection, minimize the risk of complications during and after the surgery, and ensure that the cat is protected against these diseases in the long term.

In the next section, we will discuss the recommended timing for cats to get shots before getting fixed and the consequences of getting shots too early or too late.

When Should Cats Get Shots Before Getting Fixed?

It is essential to get your cat vaccinated before spaying or neutering to ensure that they are protected from any diseases that may be present during the procedure. The recommended timing for getting shots before spaying/neutering is when the cat is a kitten, usually around 8-12 weeks old. The first set of shots is usually given at 6-8 weeks of age, followed by booster shots every 3-4 weeks until the kitten is 16 weeks old.

However, the timing of vaccination may vary depending on the cat’s health, lifestyle, and environment. For example, if the cat is already infected with a disease, they may need to delay the vaccination until they have recovered. Also, if the cat is going to be housed with other cats, they may need to get vaccinated earlier to ensure that they are protected.

It is essential to consult with your veterinarian to determine the best timing for your cat’s vaccination and spaying/neutering. They can provide you with a vaccination schedule and advise you on the best way to protect your cat’s health.

Conclusion

In conclusion, cats need shots before getting fixed to ensure their health and well-being. Spaying/neutering is a crucial procedure that helps reduce the number of stray cats and prevent certain health problems. However, it should be done after your cat has received the necessary vaccinations to protect them from diseases.

As a responsible cat owner, it is essential to provide your cat with proper care and attention, which includes getting them vaccinated and spayed/neutered. By doing so, you can help keep them healthy and prevent the spread of diseases. Remember, your cat’s health and well-being should be a top priority, so don’t hesitate to consult with your veterinarian for any questions or concerns you may have. At CohaiTungChi Tech. Knowledge for Everyone, we encourage you to prioritize your cat’s health and give them the love and care they deserve.