Does my pet need special care after vaccination?
Modern vaccines are extremely effective and safe. Perhaps no other medical advancement has saved more lives than vaccination. However, it is common for many pets to experience mild side effects following vaccination, like those that humans experience. Rarely does a pet need veterinary medical attention for these normal, minor side effects.
What are common side effects of vaccination?
Mild side effects that are sometimes seen after immunization include:
- Redness, mild swelling, and tenderness at the vaccination site
- Decreased activity levels (fatigue)
- Loss of appetite
- Low-grade fever
- Nasal discharge, sneezing, coughing, or other respiratory symptoms for 2 to 4 days after an intranasal vaccine (vaccination with drops or sprays via the nostrils)
If any of these signs last more than 24 hours or if your pet appears extremely uncomfortable, notify your veterinarian. It is also common for a pet to develop a small, firm nodule at the vaccination site called a granuloma. It should begin to shrink and vanish within 14 days. If the swelling lasts longer than 3 weeks or appears to get larger or more painful, contact your veterinarian.
Are there less common side effects of vaccination that I should watch for in my pet?
Less common but more serious side effects can occur within minutes to hours of vaccination. These reactions are medical emergencies, and you should seek veterinary care immediately if any of the following occur:
- Collapse or fainting
- Difficulty breathing
- Persistent and severe coughing
- Small, red, raised, itchy bumps on the body (hives)
- Swollen or puffy eyes, muzzle, or face
- Persistent vomiting or diarrhea
Before immunization, tell your veterinarian about any previous vaccine reactions your pet has had, regardless of how insignificant they may seem. Your veterinarian may provide pre-vaccination treatment with an antihistamine or corticosteroid, or they may consider splitting up multiple vaccines over time.
If you have any concerns that your pet may have a serious vaccine reaction, wait at your veterinary clinic for 30 to 60 minutes after vaccination. Your veterinarian will report any serious reactions to the pharmaceutical company that manufactures the vaccine.
What else should I know about vaccinating my pet?
Millions of pets are vaccinated each year, and the vast majority experience no problems. Closely monitor your pet and report any problems to your veterinarian as soon as possible. Vaccines save countless lives and prevent devastating infectious diseases from threatening pets and loved ones. The benefits of vaccinations far outweigh the risks. If you have any questions or concerns, please discuss them with your veterinarian.
