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My kitten is drowsy and shaking after vaccinations. Is this normal?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

My kitten had his initial injections this morning, was fine during the day but this evening has been acting a little stange, looks drowsy and shaking.

5 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Jennifer Summerfield, DVM CPDT-KA

Veterinarian, Certified Dog Trainer

Published on June 27th, 2016

It can be normal for kittens to be somewhat tired and sore after vaccination, just like human children. Some may run a low-grade fever and not eat well for the first day or so after their shots. What is NOT normal would be any of the following symptoms: repeated vomiting, pale gums, difficulty breathing, or collapse/extreme weakness - these are signs of a serious allergic reaction. This is very rare following vaccination, but if it occurs it can be life-threatening - so if you observe any of these signs, make sure to get your kitten to the vet right away. If she is just tired and sore, it should be fine to monitor her at home - she should be feeling better within the next 24-48 hours.

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS
Veterinarian
It sounds like your kitten can be having a reaction to the vaccines. I would recommend taking him into your vet to be examined.
0Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Jennifer Summerfield, DVM CPDT-KA
Veterinarian, Certified Dog Trainer
Published on August 3rd, 2019
Hi there. It can be normal to see some soreness and lethargy in puppies and kittens the day after getting vaccines - just like human kids :) This should improve over the next 2-3 days.

Signs of a more serious problem would include things like facial swelling, repeated episodes of vomiting, or difficulty breathing. If any of these issues are seen, then I would recommend taking her back to the vet right away to be checked out.
2Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS
Veterinarian
Published on June 25th, 2018
After having vaccines, kittens can be a little more lethargic than normal. This should pass in 24-48 hours. Keep an eye on Kiara, and if this lethargy doesn't pass or she develops other signs such as vomiting, diarrhea, facial swelling, or difficulty breathing, then I would have her seen by a vet right away. Best of luck, I hope this helps.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Dr. Dayna, DVM, CVA
Veterinarian, Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist
Published on September 15th, 2017
Poor Bud! It is very common for young cats to be lethargic after vaccines. First, the stress of the visit can be exhausting, and then the vaccine itself stimulates the immune system and may cause a small fever. This can last about 12 hours or so. If he has any facial swelling, any vomiting, or is not rousable he should go back to his veterinarian. Vaccine reactions in cats are rare, but they do happen. I hope he feels better soon!
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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