Below is a quick explanation of the different vaccination terms used at your Vetinarians office.
The term Feline Panleukopenia, or Feline Parvovirus, is more likely to be used than “Feline Distemper”. The vaccination is usually given as a combination vaccine, in the form of the FVRCP vaccination, and so it may be included in general terminology like “shots”, “vaccine boosters” etc. For more detail on precisely what vaccination your cat is being given, you should always discuss the details with your own veterinarian.
Feline distemper (also called feline panleukopenia, feline infectious enteritis, and feline parvo) is a disease caused by the feline panleukopenia virus.
The vaccine for Feline Distemper (Panleukopenia) is included in the standard combination vaccine that’s given to all kittens, otherwise known as the FVRCP vaccine.
Cat owners should discuss their own cats' vaccine needs with their own DVM veterinarian, so that any specific risk of exposure to viruses can be identified and discussed.
In general, the primary series of vaccinations against FVRCP (which includes Feline Distemper) should be given to all kittens and cats. Indoor adult cats may be given booster vaccinations every three years to maintain minimal immunity. Cats that go outside, mingling with other cats, or cats that go to boarding kennels or catteries, or to cat shows, may be given an annual booster vaccination, but again, this is a topic for discussion with your own vet.
Rabies vaccine may need to be given, depending on legislation in your part of the world, and depending on travel plans that you may have for yourself and your cat. Rabies is considered to be a core vaccine in the United States.
Feline leukemia virus (FeLV) vaccination should be discussed with your vet, but this illness cannot generally be passed on indirectly in the same way as other viruses, so may not be needed: this is regarded as a non-core vaccine.
We do not vaccinate for FeLV, FIP or FIV although we do test our breeding cats at random to ensure our cattery is clear of these diseases. Our Health Guarantee is void if you give FeLV, FIP or FIV Vaccines. We provide two rounds of FVRCP vaccines prior to kittens leaving. We are more than happy to test your personal kitten before they leave if you request that given there is enough time prior to them going home.
Below are some more links to information on Vaccines