What's the difference between FVRCP and FeLV/FIV cat vaccines?

Most veterinary internists advise vaccinating FeLV positive cats just like any other cat - they are not at higher risk for vaccine-related problems, and the vaccines are just effective in them as they would be in any other cat. She doesn't need an FeLV vaccine, obviously, but there's no reason she can't be vaccinated normally for RCP and rabies :)

Excellent question. The main vaccination(s) they need are: 1) FVRCP- a combo upper respiratory vaccine. 2) And if they go outdoors they should get the FeLV (leukemia) vaccination, which is an infection that is spread through drinking water. 3) Then of course the Rabies vaccine, if it is required in your state. The FVRCP and Rabies vaccine can be given once a year for the first year, then once every 3 years. The FeLV vaccine is given yearly.

I would worry a little more about the new kitten passing on diseases to the older cat - viral upper respiratory infections in particular are common. I'd recommend vaccinating both cats with the FVRCP combo and rabies vaccines. If the cats are going to continue to be outdoors then the FeLV vaccine would also be recommended, and I actually usually recommend vaccinating all kittens for FeLV since you never know if their lifestyle might change.

Great question! Feline core vaccines include FVRCP (feline distemper combo) and a Rabies vaccine. If Quinn is an outdoor cat, the FeLV vaccine (feline leukemia) should be considered. I hope this helps!

Thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! It is great that you decided to get your cat fixed! To be considered fully vaccinated, she will need at least a rabies vaccine, FRCP vaccine, and I recommend an FeLV vaccine for outdoor cats. These are all potentially deadly or extremely common viruses that cats can get from each other or wildlife such as raccoons. Although your cat is indoor only, there is a risk that she may run away and be exposed. I recommend having her microchipped and wear a collar in case this happens so that the two of you can be reunited. She should also be on monthly flea control, even f she is only indoors to prevent flea infestations.

FIV and FeLV are two separate conditions. The main reason I recommend and FeLV vaccine is only for cats that will be spending time outside. If you have an FIV positive cat, it is not recommended that he spend any time outside at all since he will be at risk of spreading his disease to other animals. That being said, if he will be indoor only, it is probably not necessary unless you have other cats inside your house that might be exposed to FeLV.

Try not to worry too much as it is incredibly unlikely that this vaccine will cause any issues with Lolly. The amount of virus in these vaccines is only enough to stimulate the immune system but not to actually cause the disease itself. For Lolly to infect the other are she would have to have the disease. Personally I vaccinate all cats for felv regardless of whether they go outside just in case they were to escape from the house etc. The vaccine won't do her any harm, but it is of course your decision whether you want her to have it or not, I imagine your vet made a mistake in giving it because it is so often done in the routine.