Vaccines are biological preparations that stimulate the animal's immune system to produce protective antibodies against certain infections. Thanks to vaccination, the body remembers the pathogen and reacts quickly when it encounters it in real life.

Types of vaccines by composition

1. Live attenuated vaccines

• Contain live but weakened strains of the pathogen.
• They stimulate a strong and long-lasting immune response.
• They induce immunity that is close to natural immunity.
• Used to protect against diseases such as parvovirus, carnivore plague, and panleukopenia.
• They may have some contraindications, for example, they should not be used if the immune system is weakened.

2. Inactivated (killed) vaccines

• Contain dead (inactive) pathogens or parts thereof.
• The immune response is more moderate than with live vaccines.
• Often used to protect against leptospirosis and rabies.
• They require several doses and revaccinations.

3. Recombinant vaccines

• They are produced by genetic engineering—they use individual proteins or genes from the pathogen.
• Safe, with low risk of side effects.
• They elicit a specific immune response.
• Often used for the prevention of complex viral infections.

Types of vaccines by method of administration

• Subcutaneous injections are the most common method, where the vaccine is administered into the skin or subcutaneously.
• Intramuscular injections — used for some vaccines (usually inactivated).
• Nasal or oral vaccines are less common and are used, for example, to prevent respiratory diseases in dogs.

Essential vaccines for dogs

• Combined (complex) vaccines — protect against several diseases at once (plague of carnivores, parvovirus, adenovirus, parainfluenza).
• Vaccines against leptospirosis — various serogroups recommended by region.
• Rabies vaccines are required by law.
• Special vaccines — for example, against Bordetella (kennel cough).

Essential vaccines for cats

• Combination vaccines (FVRCP) — include rhinotracheitis, calicivirus, and panleukopenia.
• Chlamydia vaccines — for the prevention of bacterial infections of the respiratory tract.
• Rabies vaccines are mandatory, especially for animals that go outside.
• The feline leukemia virus (FeLV) vaccine is very important for animals that have access to the outdoors or come into contact with other cats.

Vaccine against feline leukemia (FeLV)

• Feline leukemia is a viral disease that leads to immune suppression, anemia, tumors, and other serious complications.
• The virus is transmitted through saliva, blood, and contact between animals.
• Vaccination helps reduce the risk of infection, but does not provide a 100% guarantee.
• Recommended for cats that go outdoors, live in multi-cat households, or are at risk of contact with sick animals.
• The vaccine is usually administered subcutaneously and requires revaccination.

Why is it important to use high-quality vaccines?

• Vaccines must be certified and stored in appropriate conditions (refrigerator, specific temperature).
• The drug must be prescribed specifically for the type of animal (dog/cat) and age category.
• Counterfeits or improper storage reduce effectiveness and can lead to complications.

Safety and side effects

• Vaccines undergo rigorous testing.
• Possible mild reactions: drowsiness, slight swelling, temporary increase in temperature.
• Serious allergic reactions are rare, but immediate medical attention is required if they occur.

Summary for owners

• Vaccines are not just injections, but complex biological preparations that protect animals from dangerous infections.
• Different vaccines have different compositions and purposes.
• The vaccine against feline leukemia is important for animals at risk.
• Choosing the right vaccine is the key to long-term immunity and health for your pet.
• Consulting with a veterinarian will help you choose the best medications for your pet.