Do Older Pets Still Need Vaccines?
If you have a senior canine or senior feline, you may be wondering if vaccines are still necessary throughout your pet’s golden years. In a nutshell, yes, and in this blog, our Fear Free team at The Gentle Vet explains the importance of protecting senior pets from serious illnesses as they age.
Why Senior Pets Need Vaccines
Senior canines and senior felines need core vaccines throughout their lives because their immune systems weaken with age, making them more susceptible to illnesses and infectious diseases like rabies and canine distemper. Proper vaccination throughout a pet’s life offers the best protection for cats and dogs, and helps control the spread of contagious illnesses.
Core Vaccines for Your Senior Canine
To safeguard the health and quality of life of your senior dog, the following core vaccines are recommended:
- Rabies (Required by law)
- Canine distemper
- Adenovirus
- Parvo
Core Vaccines for Your Senior Feline
To protect your cat throughout all of his or her nine lives, the following core vaccines are vital:
- Rabies (Required by law)
- FVRCP (This vaccine offers protection against three life-threatening diseases: Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis, Feline Calicivirus, and Feline Panleukopenia)
Noncore Vaccines to Consider for Senior Pets
Annual check-ups are the perfect time to discuss your pet’s need for noncore vaccines, which we recommend only when a pet’s lifestyle, risk factors, or geographic location warrants them. For outdoorsy dogs, for instance, we might suggest the noncore vaccines for leptospirosis and Lyme disease, while senior canines who still socialize with other dogs need to be protected against Bordetella (kennel cough). For senior felines who still come into contact with other cats, noncore vaccines that protect against Chlamydophila Felis, feline Bordetella, and feline leukemia may be necessary.
Titer Testing Explained
Titer testing for pets, also known as antibody titer testing, measures the level of antibodies in a cat’s or dog’s blood to determine the pet’s immune system response to a specific pathogen. This can help veterinarians decide whether or not certain vaccines and boosters are necessary. Keep in mind that if your pet routinely visits a groomer or boarding facility, you may need to show them proof of vaccination. If your pet tests positive for certain antibodies, ask your boarding facility or groomer if a letter of exemption from your veterinarian is sufficient.
Annual Check-Ups for a Lifetime of Good Health
Our senior pets still have so much love to give, and annual check-ups coupled with appropriate vaccines provide optimal protection throughout their golden years. At The Gentle Vet, we are happy to explain our vaccine recommendations and work with you to create a care plan tailored to your pet’s needs. Please contact us at (330) 665-5915 if it’s time for your pet’s wellness visit or if you have any questions about our veterinary services.