Immunization is a critical part of caring for your cat, and vaccinations are the best way to protect your pet against common viral and bacterial infections. Some vaccines, such as rabies vaccination, are required in Jacksonville by law, while others will help guarantee your pet lives a long and healthy life.

In 2020, the AAHA (American Animal Hospital Association) and AAFP (Association of Feline Practitioners) released a new set of guidelines for feline vaccination in Jacksonville, FL. These new guidelines emphasize the importance of tailoring your cat’s healthcare plan to their unique risk factors. Plainly, because every cat is different, their vaccination needs will differ from cat to cat. The experts at San Marco Animal Hospital will work closely with you to determine your pet’s specific risk factors and which vaccines will benefit them.

Other key elements of these new guidelines include establishing a lifestyle-based vaccine calculator to keep clients clearly informed about their pet’s healthcare needs. They’ve also released FAQs and tips to keep clients up to speed, as well as new recommendations for shelter-housed cats.

What to Expect When Vaccinating Your Pet

Vaccination is one of the easiest and most effective ways of keeping your pet healthy and happy from a young age. It’s recommended to get your cats vaccinated as early as possible, protecting them from an early age and strengthening their young immune systems.

Vaccinations are typically done in a single visit, with recurring visits every few years, depending on the vaccine. The vast majority of cats respond well to vaccination, exhibiting few to no side-effects. The team at San Marco will help you select the right vaccination plan for your unique cat and will monitor their progress, maintaining the strength of their immune system and overall health throughout their life.

To read the new AAHA and AAFP Feline Vaccination Guidelines for Jacksonville, FL, visit the AAHA’s website here:

The team at San Marco Animal Hospital can talk you through these new guidelines and can help you start planning for your pet’s future. To make an appointment today, give us a call at 904-399-5557.