In these economically stressful times, we’re all looking to save money. I’ve blogged about this topic before, but it bears a repeat since I got a request from my local veterinarian last week to write something about the importance of vaccinations.

It seems that my vet has had a rash of puppies stricken with parvovirus, a deadly disease that causes vomiting and bloody diarrhea…and is EASILY preventable with economical shots. Our kittens are no different, and without protection, they’ll easily succumb to cat-killing diseases.

And you won’t ever get a better bargain than purchasing those kitten shots! Because once the baby goes through the kitten series of vaccinations, she’ll be virtually protected for life against panleukopenia (cat distemper) and will get at least three years (potentially more) protection from upper respiratory diseases.

The American Association of Feline Practitioners recommends that kittens be given a series of “core” vaccinations (panleukopenia and upper respiratory agents) until they are twelve to sixteen weeks old, one year later, and then every three years. Rabies vaccinations also are considered “core” and your state or local laws dictate how often you should give those to your cat.