If you have a new kitten in your family, it's important that you provide it with the proper vaccinations. Vaccinating your kitten will help keep it healthy and happy. Some vaccinations may leave your kitten feeling a little under the weather. However, the symptoms will go away after a few days. Here are four common side effects of the vaccinations your kitten may get.
Swelling at the Injection Site
While your kitten is undergoing vaccinations, it will receive several shots at each vet visit. It's normal for the injection site to become slightly swollen. In addition to the swelling, your kitten may experience some mild discomfort at the injection site. You can alleviate the swelling and discomfort by applying ice to the area.
To apply ice, begin by wrapping the kitten in a light blanket. Hold the kitten in your lap and place the ice pack over the injection site. Leave the ice pack in place for about 5 minutes. Repeat the process several times a day until the swelling goes away.
Fever
Your kitten may develop a mild fever and experience a loss of appetite for a few days following its vaccinations. This is normal. In most cases, the fever will go away by itself. If the fever persists, contact the veterinarian. Avoid giving fever reducers to your kitten, as they can be fatal for felines. Instead, try to increase its intake of water.
Loss of Appetite
Vaccinations can make your kitten lose its appetite for a couple of days. Try offering it small amounts of foods such as tuna or chicken. These foods have a strong odor and may be more appealing to your kitten while it's recuperating. If your kitten hasn't started eating regularly after several days, be sure to contact your veterinarian.
Nasal Discharge
If your kitten receives an intranasal vaccination – nasal spray – it may develop a slight nasal discharge for several days following the vaccination. Be sure to keep its nose clean by wiping the discharge with a soft cloth. If the discharge becomes thick, or your kitten has difficulty breathing, be sure to contact the veterinarian as soon as possible.
Vaccinations are an important part of your kitten's healthcare routine. Vaccinations will help protect it from life-threatening illnesses. The information provided above will help you keep your kitten comfortable while it recovers from its vaccinations. Be sure to notify your veterinarian immediately if your kitten becomes lethargic or exhibits any of the symptoms described above for more than a couple of days.
