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Do cats need to get Bordetella vaccine?

Author

Olivia Carter

Published Mar 03, 2026

Do cats need to get Bordetella vaccine?

It appears to be uncommon in adult cats and pet cats in general. For these reasons, the UC Davis veterinary hospital does not recommend routine vaccination of pet cats for Bordetella bronchiseptica. The vaccine could be considered for young cats at high risk of exposure in large, multiple cat environments.

Accordingly, do cats need a Bordetella vaccine?

It appears to be uncommon in adult cats and pet cats in general. For these reasons, the UC Davis veterinary hospital does not recommend routine vaccination of pet cats for Bordetella bronchiseptica. The vaccine could be considered for young cats at high risk of exposure in large, multiple cat environments.

Furthermore, how does a cat get Bordetella? The bacterium is shed in oral and nasal secretions of infected cats (Speakman et al., 1999). Direct and indirect contacts with such discharges are probably responsible for Bb transmission, although this has not been experimentally confirmed.

Then, does Bordetella need to be Boostered?

Mucosal (intranasal, oral) and parenteral (subcutaneous) vaccinations for Bordetella bronchiseptica are available for use. The mucosal Bordetella vaccine can provide immunity for 6-12months, so it does not need to be repeated (unless a dog is in shelter care for more than 6-12 months).

Is it really necessary to vaccinate cats every year?

Primary vaccination is essential in order to prevent the return of the once common deadly infectious diseases in kittens and cats. Recent research indicates that not all vaccines require yearly boosters. However, there is no evidence that annual booster vaccination is anything but beneficial to the majority of cats.

Which cat vaccines are absolutely necessary?

Essential Vaccines for Your Cat
  • Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis, Calicivirus and Panleukopenia (FVRCP). Commonly called the “distemper” shot , this combination vaccine protects against three diseases: feline viral rhinotracheitis, calicivirus and panleukopenia (sometimes called “feline distemper”).
  • Rabies.

Is Bordetella contagious to cats?

Feline bordetellosis (Bb) is a highly contagious respiratory disease caused by the bacteria Bordetella bronchiseptica.

What vaccines do indoor cats need yearly?

There are two basic types of vaccinations for cats. Rabies kills many mammals (including humans) every year. These vaccinations are required by law for cats in most states. Typically known as the “distemper” shot, this combination vaccine protects against feline viral rhinotracheitis, calicivirus and panleukopenia.

How much do shots for cats cost?

According to the RSPCA, the average cost of annual vaccinations and vet checkups is at least $80, presuming there is no major issue with your pet's health. Additional health expenses, like flea and worming treatments, will cost you between $100-$150 each year.

What is Bordetella vaccine for cats?

The Bordetella vaccine is a preventive measure to ward off a highly contagious bacterial illness that can be readily spread from dog to dog, cat to cat and dog to cat. Human transmission is also possible, so people who have a compromised immune system should avoid contact with infected animals.

What are the symptoms of Bordetella in cats?

bronchispetica in cats usually results in mild sneezing, coughing, nasal and ocular discharge and fever. Signs typically last 7-10 days. However, in occasional cases (especially in young kittens, and with severe stress) infection may be more severe and can sometimes result in life-threatening pneumonia.

Can kennel cough be passed to cats?

So, you thought kennel cough was a dog disease right? Think again. Kennel cough, or bordetella bronchiseptica, does indeed infect our feline friends.

Can dogs get Bordetella from cats?

This infection is very contagious between dogs and can be transmitted through the air, especially in areas where there are many pets in close proximity, hence the name "Kennel Cough". Despite popular association with dogs, cats can also contract Bordetella.

How much does a Bordetella shot cost?

Average costs for new puppy vaccinations3
Core vaccines for puppies (Distemper, Hepatitis, Leptospirosis, Adenovirus, Parvovirus and Parainfluenza)$75-$100
Rabies$15-$20
Bordetella4$19-$45

How long does oral Bordetella vaccine good for?

Most bordetella vaccines on the market today (injectable, oral or nasal) have been licensed by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) for annual protection. Many groomers, boarding kennel operators and even some veterinarians recommend the use of these vaccines every six months.

How effective is the Bordetella vaccine?

Kennel cough vaccines are typically targeted against Bordetella bronchiseptica +/- canine parainfluenza, two important causes of kennel cough, but not the only causes. 2) No vaccine is 100% effective. Vaccines help reduce the risk of illness, but they don't completely eliminate it.

How long is Bordetella contagious?

Bordetella bacteria can survive on surfaces for up to two full days, so it's easily spread between dogs via contaminated objects. An infected dog might pick up a toy, or drink from a water dish, that a healthy dog uses afterward.

Is the kennel cough vaccine necessary?

Should I get my dog vaccinated against Kennel Cough, even if not staying in kennels? In short; yes, it's worth considering. The name 'Kennel Cough' implies that your dog should only require inoculation if they are going to be visiting a kennel in the near future.

Will Cat bronchitis go away on its own?

Bronchitis can be acute (short duration) and associated with reversible changes in the structure of the airways or chronic (long duration, usually more than two to three months) and may lead to permanent, irreversible changes in the airways.

How serious is Bordetella?

Bordetella bronchiseptica causes inflammation of your dog's upper respiratory system. This inflammation leads to coughing and illness and can expose your dog to secondary infections.

Can cats give dogs a cold?

A: In general, most feline upper respiratory infections are caused by viruses that are specific to cats. These viruses are not contagious to other species, including dogs and people.

What happens if kennel cough is left untreated?

If left untreated, kennel cough can lead to pneumonia or even death. And even if it's not kennel cough, symptoms like vomiting, fever, and loss of appetite are other doggy disease signifiers so getting him to a doctor as quickly as possible can help get to the root of his sickness.

What does kennel cough sound like in cats?

What are the Symptoms? The most common indication of kennel cough in cats and dogs is an unpleasant-sounding cough – dry hacking or honking noises sometimes followed by retching. Other symptoms may include a runny nose, sneezing, listlessness, and, in more severe cases, lost appetite, depression, and a low fever.

Can Bordetella be cured?

There is no specific treatment for the viral infections, but many of the more severe signs are due to bacterial involvement, particularly Bordetella bronchiseptica. Antibiotics are useful against this bacterium.

When should I take my cat to the vet for an upper respiratory infection?

If your cat has any of the following signs, contact your veterinarian.
  • Not eating for more than 24 hours.
  • Green or yellow discharge from the nose or eyes (your veterinarian may prescribe antibiotics for this).
  • Difficulty breathing, especially panting or breathing through an open mouth.

Why is my cat sneezing?

Virus: The most common reason a cat will sneeze is a respiratory infection, typically caused by feline herpes virus or feline calicivirus. While these viruses are highly contagious among cats, you won't have to worry about catching it yourself as it cannot be transferred to humans.

Can cats cough?

Cats do cough, but not nearly as often as other animals. Retching or gagging , including “coughing up hairballs,” is often confused with a respiratory cough in cats. A cough is an expiratory effort producing a sudden, noisy expulsion of air from the lungs.

What happens if you don't vaccinate your cat?

Risks of not vaccinating:

1) Unvaccinated, at-risk cats can transmit a deadly disease to humans. 2) If your cat is not vaccinated for rabies (i.e., legally current) and they come in direct contact with a wild animal that is not available for rabies testing, quarantine for up to 6 months may be required.

Can I vaccinate my own cat?

Do-It-Yourself Vaccinations

We sell dog and cat vaccinations that you can administer to your pet on your own at home. These include the Canine Spectra™ 10, Canine Spectra™ 9, Canine Spectra™ 6, Canine Spectra™ 5, Kennel-Jec™ 2, and Feline Focus™ 3 (vaccine drops). Only vaccinate healthy animals.

Is it too late to vaccinate my cat?

Dogs or cats can be considered overdue for revaccination with core vaccines if the last dose was administered over 3 years ago. With the exception of the 1-year rabies vaccine, this recommendation applies to all core vaccines regardless of manufacturer.

Do cats need baths?

Many cats, especially those with short coats, are good self-groomers and rarely require bathing. However, a bath is appropriate whenever you want your feline friend to be clean and smell fresh.

What shots do cats need for apartments?

The most important vaccines are rabies (required by law in most states), and Distemper. Your lease may also specify vaccination requirements for pets. You don't want any additional risks if your pet comes into contact with other pets in the building, or even bites someone by accident.

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