Companion Animal Welfare

Cat FHV Vaccination Welfare

Feline herpesvirus vaccination reduces the severity of primary infection and may reduce reactivation frequency in infected cats.

Key Facts

FHV-1 vaccination is a core component of standard feline vaccination programmes
The vaccine does not prevent infection but reduces disease severity significantly
Vaccinated cats that do become infected typically have milder and shorter illness episodes
Maternal antibodies from vaccinated queens provide some protection to kittens in early life
Regular booster vaccination maintains protection against clinical herpesvirus disease

Welfare Considerations

FHV vaccination provides welfare benefits by reducing disease severity in cats exposed to the virus. Most cats will encounter FHV-1 during their lives and vaccination reduces the welfare cost of each exposure event.

What You Can Do

Ensure FHV vaccination is included in your cat's routine vaccination programme
Maintain booster vaccination currency throughout your cat's life
Discuss the role of vaccination in managing FHV-related disease with your vet