Cat Owner Attitudes About Vaccination

Habacher G, Gruffydd-Jones T, Murray J: Use of a web-based questionnaire to explore cat owners' attitudes towards vaccination in cats, Vet Rec 167:122, 2010.

While vaccination against infectious diseases is known to be useful and effective, concern about vaccines and their safety continues to affect management decisions made by pet owners. These researchers developed a questionnaire for evaluation of cat owners’ perception of and knowledge about vaccination of cats. Owners were asked to fill out the questionnaire with only one cat in mind (i.e., separate submissions for each cat they owned). A total of 3,163 questionnaires were evaluated. Vaccination as a kitten was the strongest predictor of up-to-date vaccination status, followed closely by the intention to take the cat to a boarding cattery or cat show in the coming year. Owners who perceived the severity of infectious diseases or veterinary advice as very important were more likely to vaccinate their cats than owners who perceived these factors as less important. The owners’ perceptions of the risk and their previous experiences of side effects in a cat were not associated with a decreased likelihood of vaccination. A cat owner’s view of the severity of infectious diseases was an important factor in their decision whether to vaccinate their cat, with cat owners who considered the severity as ‘very important’ being four times more likely to report vaccination in the previous 12 months than owners who considered the severity to be less important. The more important cost was perceived to be, the less likely the cat was reported to be vaccinated. However, there was no significant difference between the household income of owners of vaccinated and unvaccinated cats. The researchers noted that owners with a strong interest in cats, as indicated by willingness to fill out the questionnaire, may have been more motivated to participate in the survey, potentially introducing a bias. Despite this, vaccination was generally recognized as important and few concerns about safety were expressed. This information might be helpful to increase awareness of cat owners’ perceptions by veterinarians and allow them to address owners’ concerns and communicate with them more effectively. [MK]

Related articles:
Lue TW, Pantenburg DP, Crawford PM: Impact of the owner-pet and client-veterinarian bond on the care that pets receive, J Am Vet Med Assoc 232:531, 2008.

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Habacher G, Gruffydd-Jones T, Murray J: Use of a web-based questionnaire to explore cat owners' attitudes towards vaccination in cats, Vet Rec 167:122, 2010.

While vaccination against infectious diseases is known to be useful and effective, concern about vaccines and their safety continues to affect management decisions made by pet owners. These researchers developed a questionnaire for evaluation of cat owners’ perception of and knowledge about vaccination of cats. Owners were asked to fill out the questionnaire with only one cat in mind (i.e., separate submissions for each cat they owned). A total of 3,163 questionnaires were evaluated. Vaccination as a kitten was the strongest predictor of up-to-date vaccination status, followed closely by the intention to take the cat to a boarding cattery or cat show in the coming year. Owners who perceived the severity of infectious diseases or veterinary advice as very important were more likely to vaccinate their cats than owners who perceived these factors as less important. The owners’ perceptions of the risk and their previous experiences of side effects in a cat were not associated with a decreased likelihood of vaccination. A cat owner’s view of the severity of infectious diseases was an important factor in their decision whether to vaccinate their cat, with cat owners who considered the severity as ‘very important’ being four times more likely to report vaccination in the previous 12 months than owners who considered the severity to be less important. The more important cost was perceived to be, the less likely the cat was reported to be vaccinated. However, there was no significant difference between the household income of owners of vaccinated and unvaccinated cats. The researchers noted that owners with a strong interest in cats, as indicated by willingness to fill out the questionnaire, may have been more motivated to participate in the survey, potentially introducing a bias. Despite this, vaccination was generally recognized as important and few concerns about safety were expressed. This information might be helpful to increase awareness of cat owners’ perceptions by veterinarians and allow them to address owners’ concerns and communicate with them more effectively. [MK]

Related articles:
Lue TW, Pantenburg DP, Crawford PM: Impact of the owner-pet and client-veterinarian bond on the care that pets receive, J Am Vet Med Assoc 232:531, 2008.

More on cat health: Winn Feline Foundation Library
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Feline Calicivirus Vaccination

Huang C, Hess J, Gill M et al.: A dual-strain feline calicivirus vaccine stimulates broader cross-neutralization antibodies than a single-strain vaccine and lessens clinical signs in vaccinated cats when challenged with a homologous feline calicivirus strain associated with virulent systemic disease, J Feline Med Surg 12:129, 2010.

Feline calicivirus (FCV) is generally associated with mild upper respiratory disease. In recent years, a more severe disease syndrome with high mortality has been linked to FCV infection. Viral mutations responsible for the different disease presentations have not been identified. In addition, these viruses differ in antigenicity, or how they appear to the immune system of the cat. This has an impact on the effectiveness of vaccines to induce protection against all strains of the virus. This report describes the ability of a vaccine containing two different strains of FCV to induce protection in vaccinated animals against many strains of the virus. The two strains used were a traditional FCV strain and a strain isolated from a case of virulent systemic disease (VSD). Serum from vaccinated cats was tested for protection (neutralization antibodies) against various FCV isolates. Immunity, as indicated by levels of serum neutralizing antibodies in vaccinated cats was tested against 37 European isolates of FCV as well as six VSD isolates from the United States. It is not clear as to whether these isolates were characterized genetically or antigenically; thus, their similarity or dissimilarity could not be assessed. This is important when assessing cross-protectiveness of a vaccine against different virus strains. Serum from cats vaccinated with both FCV strains neutralized more FCV isolates than that from cats vaccinated with a single FCV strain. Not surprisingly, cats vaccinated with the VSD-producing strain were protected against challenge with the same, virulent virus. The researchers conclude that this vaccine containing two strains is more effective than those containing a single strain. But given that the diversity of the strains against which the vaccine was tested was not described, this cannot be definitively stated. [MK]

Related articles:
Addie D, Poulet H, Golder MC et al.: Ability of antibodies to two new caliciviral vaccine strains to neutralise feline calicivirus isolates from the UK, Vet Rec 163:355, 2008.

Radford AD, Addie D, Belak S et al.: Feline calicivirus infection ABCD guidelines on prevention and management, J Feline Med Surg 11:556, 2009.

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Huang C, Hess J, Gill M et al.: A dual-strain feline calicivirus vaccine stimulates broader cross-neutralization antibodies than a single-strain vaccine and lessens clinical signs in vaccinated cats when challenged with a homologous feline calicivirus strain associated with virulent systemic disease, J Feline Med Surg 12:129, 2010.

Feline calicivirus (FCV) is generally associated with mild upper respiratory disease. In recent years, a more severe disease syndrome with high mortality has been linked to FCV infection. Viral mutations responsible for the different disease presentations have not been identified. In addition, these viruses differ in antigenicity, or how they appear to the immune system of the cat. This has an impact on the effectiveness of vaccines to induce protection against all strains of the virus. This report describes the ability of a vaccine containing two different strains of FCV to induce protection in vaccinated animals against many strains of the virus. The two strains used were a traditional FCV strain and a strain isolated from a case of virulent systemic disease (VSD). Serum from vaccinated cats was tested for protection (neutralization antibodies) against various FCV isolates. Immunity, as indicated by levels of serum neutralizing antibodies in vaccinated cats was tested against 37 European isolates of FCV as well as six VSD isolates from the United States. It is not clear as to whether these isolates were characterized genetically or antigenically; thus, their similarity or dissimilarity could not be assessed. This is important when assessing cross-protectiveness of a vaccine against different virus strains. Serum from cats vaccinated with both FCV strains neutralized more FCV isolates than that from cats vaccinated with a single FCV strain. Not surprisingly, cats vaccinated with the VSD-producing strain were protected against challenge with the same, virulent virus. The researchers conclude that this vaccine containing two strains is more effective than those containing a single strain. But given that the diversity of the strains against which the vaccine was tested was not described, this cannot be definitively stated. [MK]

Related articles:
Addie D, Poulet H, Golder MC et al.: Ability of antibodies to two new caliciviral vaccine strains to neutralise feline calicivirus isolates from the UK, Vet Rec 163:355, 2008.

Radford AD, Addie D, Belak S et al.: Feline calicivirus infection ABCD guidelines on prevention and management, J Feline Med Surg 11:556, 2009.

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Response of Kittens to Vaccination

Jas, D., C. Aeberle, et al. (2009). Onset of immunity in kittens after vaccination with a non-adjuvanted vaccine against feline panleucopenia, feline calicivirus and feline herpesvirus. Vet J 182(1): 86-93.

Feline panleukopenia, calicivirus and herpesvirus are all significant and common pathogens of cats, and are highly contagious in susceptible populations. Cats are routinely vaccinated against these pathogens, but the time it takes following vaccination for protection to develop in the kitten has not been examined in depth. Induction of a rapid immune response is critical in high-risk environments such as shelters. These investigators examined the level of protection in kittens one week after vaccination with a combination vaccine containing live strains of feline panleukopenia virus, herpesvirus, and Chlamydophila, and inactivated feline calicivirus, as well as recombinant FeLV component. A recombinant rabies vaccine was also given. Kittens were specific pathogen free, thus there was no maternal antibody to interfere with vaccine response. They were challenged one week (FPV, FHV, FCV), three weeks (FPV), or four weeks (FHV and FCV) after vaccination. Clinical parameters were measured, and antibody levels and virus shedding was assessed. Kittens appeared to be protected from severe disease by one week post-vaccination, and virus shedding was also significantly reduced as compared to non-vaccinated controls. No difference in clinical parameters was noted whether kittens were challenged at one week or three to four weeks post vaccination. While a single vaccination with FPV induced rapid antibody production, two vaccinations with FCV and FHV were required for a similar response. While maternal antibodies will interfere with vaccinal response if present, this study shows that without maternal antibodies, vaccinal response occurs rapidly. [MK]
>> PubMed Abstract

Related articles:
Dawson, S., K. Willoughby, et al. (2001). A field trial to assess the effect of vaccination against feline herpesvirus, feline calicivirus and feline panleucopenia virus in 6-week-old kittens. J Feline Med Surg 3(1): 17-22.
>> PubMed Abstract

Lappin, M. R., R. W. Sebring, et al. (2006). Effects of a single dose of an intranasal feline herpesvirus 1, calicivirus, and panleukopenia vaccine on clinical signs and virus shedding after challenge with virulent feline herpesvirus 1. J Feline Med Surg 8(3): 158-63.
>> PubMed Abstract

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Jas, D., C. Aeberle, et al. (2009). Onset of immunity in kittens after vaccination with a non-adjuvanted vaccine against feline panleucopenia, feline calicivirus and feline herpesvirus. Vet J 182(1): 86-93.

Feline panleukopenia, calicivirus and herpesvirus are all significant and common pathogens of cats, and are highly contagious in susceptible populations. Cats are routinely vaccinated against these pathogens, but the time it takes following vaccination for protection to develop in the kitten has not been examined in depth. Induction of a rapid immune response is critical in high-risk environments such as shelters. These investigators examined the level of protection in kittens one week after vaccination with a combination vaccine containing live strains of feline panleukopenia virus, herpesvirus, and Chlamydophila, and inactivated feline calicivirus, as well as recombinant FeLV component. A recombinant rabies vaccine was also given. Kittens were specific pathogen free, thus there was no maternal antibody to interfere with vaccine response. They were challenged one week (FPV, FHV, FCV), three weeks (FPV), or four weeks (FHV and FCV) after vaccination. Clinical parameters were measured, and antibody levels and virus shedding was assessed. Kittens appeared to be protected from severe disease by one week post-vaccination, and virus shedding was also significantly reduced as compared to non-vaccinated controls. No difference in clinical parameters was noted whether kittens were challenged at one week or three to four weeks post vaccination. While a single vaccination with FPV induced rapid antibody production, two vaccinations with FCV and FHV were required for a similar response. While maternal antibodies will interfere with vaccinal response if present, this study shows that without maternal antibodies, vaccinal response occurs rapidly. [MK]
>> PubMed Abstract

Related articles:
Dawson, S., K. Willoughby, et al. (2001). A field trial to assess the effect of vaccination against feline herpesvirus, feline calicivirus and feline panleucopenia virus in 6-week-old kittens. J Feline Med Surg 3(1): 17-22.
>> PubMed Abstract

Lappin, M. R., R. W. Sebring, et al. (2006). Effects of a single dose of an intranasal feline herpesvirus 1, calicivirus, and panleukopenia vaccine on clinical signs and virus shedding after challenge with virulent feline herpesvirus 1. J Feline Med Surg 8(3): 158-63.
>> PubMed Abstract

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Response to Vaccinations in Cats

Lappin, M. R., J. Veir, et al. (2009). "Feline panleukopenia virus, feline herpesvirus-1, and feline calicivirus antibody responses in seronegative specific pathogen-free cats after a single administration of two different modified live FVRCP vaccines." Journal of Feline Medicine & Surgery 11(2): 159-162.

Researchers at Colorado State University evaluated the antibody response of cats to a single inoculation of one of two modified live vaccines containing feline panleukopenia virus (FPV), feline herpesvirus (FHV) and feline calicivirus (FCV). These pathogens commonly infect cats, and some cats at greatest risk, such as those in shelters or pet stores, may suffer severe disease, or even death. In these situations, rapid onset of immunity following vaccination is needed. The investigators sought to determine the timing of seroconversion in 10 seronegative cats following a single vaccination with either an intranasal vaccine or one given subcutaneously (both are commercially available vaccines). This study had limitations, in that the number of cats tested were small, and protection was evaluated by antibody levels only. In addition, the cats tested were adults not kittens; thus, the ability to break through maternal immunity could not be evaluated. Nevertheless, results were informative. While all cats developed detectable FPV and FCV antibody titers; only two cats developed detectable FHV-1 antibody titers indicating two vaccinations are required for adequate protection. For FPV and FHV-1, there were no differences in seroconversion rates between the cats that were given the intranasal versus the injectable vaccine. However, for FCV, the cats that were administered the IN FVRCP vaccine were more likely to seroconvert earlier than cats that were administered the injectable vaccine. These results suggest that the FVRCP vaccine administered IN should be considered in populations of FCV naive cats with high risk of exposure. [MK]
>> PubMed Abstract

Related articles:
Lappin, M. R., R. W. Sebring, et al. (2006). "Effects of a single dose of an intranasal feline herpesvirus 1, calicivirus, and panleukopenia vaccine on clinical signs and virus shedding after challenge with virulent feline herpesvirus 1." J Feline Med Surg 8(3): 158-63.
>> PubMed Abstract

Lappin, M. R., J. Andrews, et al. (2002). "Use of serologic tests to predict resistance to feline herpesvirus 1, feline calicivirus, and feline parvovirus infection in cats." J Am Vet Med Assoc 220(1): 38-42.
>> PubMed Abstract

More on cat health: Winn Feline Foundation Library

Lappin, M. R., J. Veir, et al. (2009). "Feline panleukopenia virus, feline herpesvirus-1, and feline calicivirus antibody responses in seronegative specific pathogen-free cats after a single administration of two different modified live FVRCP vaccines." Journal of Feline Medicine & Surgery 11(2): 159-162.

Researchers at Colorado State University evaluated the antibody response of cats to a single inoculation of one of two modified live vaccines containing feline panleukopenia virus (FPV), feline herpesvirus (FHV) and feline calicivirus (FCV). These pathogens commonly infect cats, and some cats at greatest risk, such as those in shelters or pet stores, may suffer severe disease, or even death. In these situations, rapid onset of immunity following vaccination is needed. The investigators sought to determine the timing of seroconversion in 10 seronegative cats following a single vaccination with either an intranasal vaccine or one given subcutaneously (both are commercially available vaccines). This study had limitations, in that the number of cats tested were small, and protection was evaluated by antibody levels only. In addition, the cats tested were adults not kittens; thus, the ability to break through maternal immunity could not be evaluated. Nevertheless, results were informative. While all cats developed detectable FPV and FCV antibody titers; only two cats developed detectable FHV-1 antibody titers indicating two vaccinations are required for adequate protection. For FPV and FHV-1, there were no differences in seroconversion rates between the cats that were given the intranasal versus the injectable vaccine. However, for FCV, the cats that were administered the IN FVRCP vaccine were more likely to seroconvert earlier than cats that were administered the injectable vaccine. These results suggest that the FVRCP vaccine administered IN should be considered in populations of FCV naive cats with high risk of exposure. [MK]
>> PubMed Abstract

Related articles:
Lappin, M. R., R. W. Sebring, et al. (2006). "Effects of a single dose of an intranasal feline herpesvirus 1, calicivirus, and panleukopenia vaccine on clinical signs and virus shedding after challenge with virulent feline herpesvirus 1." J Feline Med Surg 8(3): 158-63.
>> PubMed Abstract

Lappin, M. R., J. Andrews, et al. (2002). "Use of serologic tests to predict resistance to feline herpesvirus 1, feline calicivirus, and feline parvovirus infection in cats." J Am Vet Med Assoc 220(1): 38-42.
>> PubMed Abstract

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Injection-Site Sarcomas

Shaw SC, Kent MS, Gordon IK, et al. Temporal changes in characteristics of injection-site sarcomas in cats: 392 cases (1990-2006). Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association. 2009;234(3):376-380.

A proposed association between vaccinations and tumor formation in cats was first discussed in 1991. Studies since that time have supported a link between injections and the development of sarcomas. Fibrosarcomas are highly invasive and about 1/4 will metastasize. Radical surgery in combination with radiation therapy is required to control these tumors. In 1996, the Vaccine-Associated Feline Sarcoma Task Force (VAFSTF) was formed to identify methods to prevent and treat these tumors. One recommendation was to administer vaccinations to cats in standardized sites, avoiding the interscapular area. The purpose of this study was to evaluate changes in anatomic location and histologic classification of injection-site sarcomas, as well as signalment of affected cats before and after publication of the VAFSTF recommendations. In this retrospective case series, medical records of 392 cats with a diagnosis of sarcoma at a potential injection site were examined. From before to after the publication of the VAFSTF recommendations, the proportions of injection site-sarcomas significantly decreased in the interscapular and thoracic regions. However, proportions of the tumors in other locations significantly increased. Despite the recommendations, a high proportion of tumors still developed in the interscapular region. The researchers concluded that veterinarians are complying with the recommendations to some extent, but should ensure vaccinations are administered as distally as possible on a limb to allow for complete surgical excision should a tumor develop.
>> JAVMA Abstract

Related articles:
Romanelli G, Marconato L, Olivero D, Massari F, Zini E. Analysis of prognostic factors associated with injection-site sarcomas in cats: 57 cases (2001-2007). J Am Vet Med Assoc. 2008 Apr 15;232(8):1193-9.
>> PubMed Abstract

More on cat health: Winn Feline Foundation Library

Shaw SC, Kent MS, Gordon IK, et al. Temporal changes in characteristics of injection-site sarcomas in cats: 392 cases (1990-2006). Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association. 2009;234(3):376-380.

A proposed association between vaccinations and tumor formation in cats was first discussed in 1991. Studies since that time have supported a link between injections and the development of sarcomas. Fibrosarcomas are highly invasive and about 1/4 will metastasize. Radical surgery in combination with radiation therapy is required to control these tumors. In 1996, the Vaccine-Associated Feline Sarcoma Task Force (VAFSTF) was formed to identify methods to prevent and treat these tumors. One recommendation was to administer vaccinations to cats in standardized sites, avoiding the interscapular area. The purpose of this study was to evaluate changes in anatomic location and histologic classification of injection-site sarcomas, as well as signalment of affected cats before and after publication of the VAFSTF recommendations. In this retrospective case series, medical records of 392 cats with a diagnosis of sarcoma at a potential injection site were examined. From before to after the publication of the VAFSTF recommendations, the proportions of injection site-sarcomas significantly decreased in the interscapular and thoracic regions. However, proportions of the tumors in other locations significantly increased. Despite the recommendations, a high proportion of tumors still developed in the interscapular region. The researchers concluded that veterinarians are complying with the recommendations to some extent, but should ensure vaccinations are administered as distally as possible on a limb to allow for complete surgical excision should a tumor develop.
>> JAVMA Abstract

Related articles:
Romanelli G, Marconato L, Olivero D, Massari F, Zini E. Analysis of prognostic factors associated with injection-site sarcomas in cats: 57 cases (2001-2007). J Am Vet Med Assoc. 2008 Apr 15;232(8):1193-9.
>> PubMed Abstract

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Vaccination of Kittens at the Time of Surgery

Reese, M. J., E. V. Patterson, et al. (2008). "Effects of anesthesia and surgery on serologic responses to vaccination in kittens." Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association 233(1): 116-121.

There are many potential situations where it is desirable to vaccinate kittens at the time of spay or neuter surgery, such as in shelter situations where compliance with post-adoption recommendations is poor. Shelters commonly spay or neuter kittens at or near the time of vaccination. However, the effects of anesthesia and surgery on the immune response of kittens to vaccination is unknown. In this prospective controlled trial, 32 specific-pathogen free kittens were assigned to 1 of 4 groups: neutering at 7, 8, 9 weeks of age, or no neutering. All kittens received a modified live virus vaccine against feline herpesvirus (FHV), feline calicivirus (FCV) and feline panleukopenia virus (FPV) at 8, 11, and 14 weeks of age. Rabies vaccine was administered at 14 weeks of age. Serum antibody titers against FHV, FCV, FPV and rabies were determined at various time points. Serologic responses of kittens spayed or neutered at the time of vaccination were not different from the other groups. Importantly, many kittens that were last vaccinated at 14 weeks of age had inadequate antibody titers at 17 weeks. The researchers conclude that kittens may be vaccinated in the perioperative period when necessary, and the last vaccination should be given no earlier than 16 weeks of age.
>> JAVMA Abstract

Related articles:
Poulet, H. (2007). "Alternative early life vaccination programs for companion animals." J Comp Pathol 137 Suppl 1: S67-71.
>> PubMed Abstract

Richards, J. R., T. H. Elston, et al. (2006). "The 2006 American Association of Feline Practitioners Feline Vaccine Advisory Panel report." J Am Vet Med Assoc 229(9): 1405-41.
>> Free full text article

More on cat health: Winn Feline Foundation Library

Reese, M. J., E. V. Patterson, et al. (2008). "Effects of anesthesia and surgery on serologic responses to vaccination in kittens." Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association 233(1): 116-121.

There are many potential situations where it is desirable to vaccinate kittens at the time of spay or neuter surgery, such as in shelter situations where compliance with post-adoption recommendations is poor. Shelters commonly spay or neuter kittens at or near the time of vaccination. However, the effects of anesthesia and surgery on the immune response of kittens to vaccination is unknown. In this prospective controlled trial, 32 specific-pathogen free kittens were assigned to 1 of 4 groups: neutering at 7, 8, 9 weeks of age, or no neutering. All kittens received a modified live virus vaccine against feline herpesvirus (FHV), feline calicivirus (FCV) and feline panleukopenia virus (FPV) at 8, 11, and 14 weeks of age. Rabies vaccine was administered at 14 weeks of age. Serum antibody titers against FHV, FCV, FPV and rabies were determined at various time points. Serologic responses of kittens spayed or neutered at the time of vaccination were not different from the other groups. Importantly, many kittens that were last vaccinated at 14 weeks of age had inadequate antibody titers at 17 weeks. The researchers conclude that kittens may be vaccinated in the perioperative period when necessary, and the last vaccination should be given no earlier than 16 weeks of age.
>> JAVMA Abstract

Related articles:
Poulet, H. (2007). "Alternative early life vaccination programs for companion animals." J Comp Pathol 137 Suppl 1: S67-71.
>> PubMed Abstract

Richards, J. R., T. H. Elston, et al. (2006). "The 2006 American Association of Feline Practitioners Feline Vaccine Advisory Panel report." J Am Vet Med Assoc 229(9): 1405-41.
>> Free full text article

More on cat health: Winn Feline Foundation Library

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Risks from Adjuvanted Vaccines in Cats

Day, M. J., H. A. Schoon, et al. (2007). "A kinetic study of histopathological changes in the subcutis of cats injected with non-adjuvanted and adjuvanted multi-component vaccines." Vaccine 25(20): 4073-84.

In the last decade, considerable attention has been focused on the role of inflammation in the formation of vaccine-associated sarcomas in cats. This study evaluated the subcutaneous tissue response to a single injection of a multi-component vaccine in 3 groups of cats, plus a control group given saline. Group 1 cats were given a non-adjuvanted vaccine, Group 2 cats were given a lipid-based adjuvanted vaccine, and Group 3 cats were given an alum-Quil A adjuvanted vaccine. The injection sites were biopsied at various time points and examined for inflammation and evidence of tissue repair. At all time points, there was significantly less inflammation associated with injection of the non-adjuvanted vaccine. Cats given the adjuvanted vaccines had evidence of residual adjuvant material inside macrophages even at 62 days post-injection.
>> PubMed abstract

For more information on feline vaccinations:
The 2006 Feline Vaccine Advisory Panel Report from the American Assoc. of Feline Practitioners

More on cat health: Winn Feline Foundation library

Day, M. J., H. A. Schoon, et al. (2007). "A kinetic study of histopathological changes in the subcutis of cats injected with non-adjuvanted and adjuvanted multi-component vaccines." Vaccine 25(20): 4073-84.

In the last decade, considerable attention has been focused on the role of inflammation in the formation of vaccine-associated sarcomas in cats. This study evaluated the subcutaneous tissue response to a single injection of a multi-component vaccine in 3 groups of cats, plus a control group given saline. Group 1 cats were given a non-adjuvanted vaccine, Group 2 cats were given a lipid-based adjuvanted vaccine, and Group 3 cats were given an alum-Quil A adjuvanted vaccine. The injection sites were biopsied at various time points and examined for inflammation and evidence of tissue repair. At all time points, there was significantly less inflammation associated with injection of the non-adjuvanted vaccine. Cats given the adjuvanted vaccines had evidence of residual adjuvant material inside macrophages even at 62 days post-injection.
>> PubMed abstract

For more information on feline vaccinations:
The 2006 Feline Vaccine Advisory Panel Report from the American Assoc. of Feline Practitioners

More on cat health: Winn Feline Foundation library

Read More