Cheshire Independent Issue 203

7 JULY 2025 Visit our website: www.independentnewspapers.co.uk Independent PETS VACCINATION is vital in protecting cats, dogs and rabbits from key infec- tious diseases that cause pain and dis- tress and can be life-threatening. If you’re not sure whether your pet is up-to- date with their vaccinations, then don’t worry – your veterinary practice will be able to tell you when their next appointment is due. Kennel Cough - also known as Canine Infectious Cough - affects dogs and can be caused by several different viruses and bac- teria. It doesn’t tend to cause serious illness for most dogs, but can cause a nasty, honking cough and is very contagious. Veterinary practices offer vaccina- tion against the main causes of ken- nel cough in addition to your dog’s core, annual vaccinations. The name ‘Kennel Cough is quite mislead- ing, as your dog can catch it anywhere where they are around a lot of other dogs, such as at the park, day care, shows or competitions. To minimise the risk, yearly vaccination is required, and vaccines should be given at least three weeks before your dog goes into kennels. Cats can generally be vaccinated from eight or nine weeks of age, with a second vaccina- tion given three to four weeks later. Core cat vaccinations include Feline Her- pesvirus, Calicivirus and Feline Panleu- kopaenia virus - sometimes referred to as Parvovirus - which causes Feline Infectious Enteritis. It’s also a good idea to vaccinate most cats against the Feline Leukaemia virus, which suppresses the immune system and is potentially fatal. Adult cats should receive annual booster vaccinations to maintain immunity, particu- larly if they are going to be spending time in catteries or going outside. It is important to keep your cat’s vaccina- tions up to date, as overdue booster injec- tions allow for a decrease in immunity and may mean that your cat needs to restart their primary vaccination course to be ade- quately protected. Rabbits need to be vaccinated against two life-threatening diseases: Myxomatosis and the classic and variant strains of Rabbit Haemorrhagic Disease. These diseases are easily transmissible and both indoor and outdoor rabbits are at risk. All rabbits should therefore receive yearly vaccinations to ensure they are protected. To learn more about the importance of vaccinations, please reach out to your local Willows veterinary practice. Action stations for pet vaccinations!