Vaccination reactions

Although it is uncommon, vaccine reactions can occur.  We want you to be aware of some of the vaccine reactions that pets can experience.  These reactions can range from very mild to severe.  They usually occur within one hour of receiving a vaccine, but reactions can be delayed by several hours.  Vaccines may also cause a lump at the injection site.  If this lump lasts longer than a week, let us know.

Any vaccine can be associated with a reaction. The vaccines that have been associated with reactions are the following:

DOGS
Distemper/Hepatitis/Parainfluenza/Parvo virus/Leptospirosis
Leptospirosis
Rabies

CATS
FeLV: Feline leukemia virus vaccine
FVRCP: Feline viral rhino/calici/panleukopenia
Rabies (reactions much less likely with special non-adjuvanted vaccine

Mild: May be noted after any vaccination(s)
• Mild itching at injection site
• Mild lethargy (tiredness)
• Coughing/sneezing (seen with Kennel cough intranasal vaccine)

Moderate: Please call, we may need to see your pet
• Hives (raised red bumps that itch)
• Moderate lethargy/inappetance
• Mild-Moderate facial swelling
• Mild-Moderate stiffness
• Diarrhea or vomiting

SEVERE (rare): We will need to see your pet as soon as possible, or if after hours please call Veterinary Emergency Service or the closest emergency clinic. VES: 608-831-1101.
* If your pet experiences any of the symptoms in the severe category, please bring your pet to your veterinarian immediately as these symptoms can be life threatening.

• Difficulty breathing
• Severe facial swelling
• Several episodes of diarrhea or vomiting
• Severe Stiffness

If your pet experiences a vaccine reaction in ANY category please let us know prior to any further vaccinations so we can discuss alternative vaccination protocols for your pet.