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Josephine

She is not sick. But I'm worried about her catching an illness. I have just adopted a 3 month old kitten. She has only had 2 rounds of the fvrcp vaccine. I am also house/cat-sitting for a family member but her cats are mostly unvaccinated outdoor cats. I'm afraid of getting my kitten sick. How can I keep her safe while taking care of those other cats? How likely am i to pass on a disease to her? I'm scared. Please advise.

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Leia
Cat, Domestic Shorthair
4 months, Female
Issue details
Main concern
Others
Duration
1 day(s)
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Dr. Sena
Dr.Tail Vet

It's wonderful to see that you're taking proactive steps to ensure your kitten's health. At three months old and with two rounds of the FVRCP vaccine, your kitten does have some protection, but she isn't fully vaccinated yet. To minimize the risk of her catching an illness, here are a few important measures you can take:

First, it's crucial to keep your kitten isolated from the unvaccinated outdoor cats as much as possible. This means setting up a separate room or area where the other cats cannot access.

Next, maintaining good hygiene is essential. Make sure to wash your hands thoroughly before and after handling each cat. This practice helps prevent the spread of any potential pathogens.

Additionally, disinfect any shared spaces or items such as litter boxes, food bowls, and toys. Use pet-safe disinfectants to ensure no harmful residues are left behind.

Monitoring your kitten closely for any signs of illness is also important. Watch for symptoms like sneezing, coughing, lethargy, or changes in appetite. Early detection is key to managing any potential health issues.

Lastly, ensure your kitten completes her vaccination schedule. The FVRCP vaccine typically requires a series of three shots, so make sure she receives her final dose as scheduled.

The likelihood of passing on a disease depends on the specific pathogens the outdoor cats might carry. Common concerns include upper respiratory infections, feline leukemia virus (FeLV), and feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV). By following these steps, you can significantly reduce the risk.

If you notice any symptoms of illness in your kitten, it's important to consult a veterinarian promptly. Should you have any further questions, please feel free to ask. Thank you.

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Josephine

Thank you. Should I change my clothes and shoes when going between the outdoor cats and the kitten?

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Dr. Sena

Changing your clothes and shoes when moving between your outdoor cats and your kitten is indeed a very wise practice. This extra step can significantly reduce the risk of transmitting any potential pathogens.

Outdoor shoes can carry a lot of dirt and germs. It's best to leave them at the door and use indoor shoes or slippers when you're inside with your kitten.