In a recent interview with dvm360, veterinarians Kaitlyn Krebs, DVM, MBA, and Kirsten White, DVM, shared important updates regarding vaccination guidelines for dogs and cats. Key changes include the recommendation of an additional feline viral rhinotracheitis, calicivirus, and panleukopenia (FVRCP) booster for kittens, as well as classifying feline leukemia virus (FeLV) vaccination as a core vaccine for kittens under one year. Additionally, leptospirosis (lepto) has been designated as a core vaccine for all dogs, irrespective of their lifestyle.
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Krebs, an associate professor at Rowan University School of Veterinary Medicine, noted that while the feline guidelines were last revised in 2020, many veterinary practices have been slow to implement the recommended changes. The update mandates an extra FVRCP booster at six months for kittens since about one-third of them may retain maternal antibodies and thus may not be fully protected.
The FeLV vaccine is now considered core for all kittens, requiring two doses in the initial series and a booster at one year. After this, the vaccine becomes lifestyle-dependent based on the cat’s exposure risk.
On the canine side, the guidelines revised in 2022 were further updated in 2024, particularly regarding lepto. This change reflects a broader understanding that all dogs, including those in urban environments, are susceptible to leptospirosis due to exposure to wildlife and environmental factors.
Krebs explained that the differences in adoption of these guidelines may stem from challenges cat owners face in bringing their pets to the veterinarian. In contrast, dog owners are generally more amenable to annual vaccinations, making them more receptive to the changes regarding lepto. White echoed these sentiments, noting that cat owners may perceive a reduced risk for indoor cats, which can hinder vaccination compliance.
Regarding potential shifts in core vaccines, Krebs clarified that while the FeLV vaccine is now core for young kittens, it remains non-core for adults. Conversely, the lepto vaccine's status has shifted from non-core to core for all dogs.
Krebs emphasized that lepto's previous classification as non-core stemmed from outdated assumptions about geographical risk, but evolving research highlights that urban dogs are also at risk, thus necessitating the guideline changes.
This conversation is part of a series, with further insights expected in a follow-up feature later this month.