Vaccinations
We have posted some links on the bottom of this page so you can do your own research but below is a quick explanation of the different vaccination terms used at your Veterinarian's office.
The first 2 sets of initial core vaccines we give cover calicivirus, rhinotracheitis (herpes), and panleukopenia (feline distemper). They don’t cover Feline leukemia and we do not give this to our young kittens due to the risks involved.
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. We recommend separating their third vaccination appointment and getting the Rabies at a seperate visit.
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. This will also depend on how you intend to keep your Bengal, which is why we recommend keeping them indoors.
FeLV and FIV information online is very generalist and not exactly accurate.
FeLV vaccine risks in purebred Bengals are generally the same as for other cats (soreness, lethargy), but Bengals are inherently more sensitive. The FeLV vaccine has a slightly higher risk of rare, severe reactions like Injection site sarcomas (tumors) than core vaccines, though benefits often outweigh risks for outdoor cats. The key is a vet's risk assessment for the cat's lifestyle and choosing the safest vaccine type, often placed far down the leg to allow for amputation if needed.
Most vets don’t vaccinate for FIV as the vaccine has low efficacy and high rate of negative side effects that can be severe and life threatening/altering.
In truth, with FeLV around 70% of cats have developed natural resistance to FeLV by the time they are a year old. A mature immune system is strong against this virus. Kittens are at high risk, but only if they share fluids with an infected cat. Biting or being bitten by, mating with, or grooming with an infected cat is the only way to transmit the virus. They can’t get it off surfaces or from walking around where an infected cat has been.
The other thing of important note in Bengals is that the FeLV vaccine was developed from the original F1 hybrids. Leopard cats are immune to FeLV. Domestic cats were hybridized with them to make hybrids to see if they could inherit the natural immunity. The blood from the hybrids was tested and then used to make the FeLV vaccine. With this, some Bengals react badly to the vaccine, and can develop symptoms that mirror the actual virus.
We advise our customers not to vaccinate for it FIV/FeLV. If you live in an area with a high rate of strays, we say that it would be worth vaccinating if you plan to give your cat access to the yard or harness train, but we also recommend vaccinating once your cat is one year old as their body is more able to cope with the vaccine at this point. It is still your decision after you talk with your Vet as long as you know the risks!
Kittens vaccinated with FIV/FeLV will void our health guarantee. If you do decide to vaccinate for FIV/FeLV please note that your cat will now test positive for the disease. The FIV test cannot tell the difference between an ‘Infected’ cat and a ‘vaccinated’ cat. Any testing should NOT rely on an in-house ‘SNAP’ test for results, as they are not 100% accurate.
- The Truth: The Asian Leopard Cat ancestor has resistance, but modern Bengals do not inherit this immunity, so they are just as vulnerable as other domestic cats.
- Risk Assessment: Vaccination is crucial for Bengals with outdoor access or exposure to unknown cats. For strictly indoor Bengals with no contact, the risk is lower, but always consult your vet for a personalized plan.
- Vaccine Sensitivity: Some Bengal owners report adverse reactions (vomiting, lethargy) to FeLV shots, possibly due to the breed's unique genetics, though there are no specific "Bengal vaccines".
- Vaccine Types: Inactivated FeLV vaccines may be more effective than recombinant ones, with some vets suggesting the risk/reward balance for indoor cats.
- Consult Your Vet: Because of potential sensitivities and the disease's seriousness, discuss the pros/cons and specific vaccine types with a knowledgeable veterinarian.
Below are some more links to information on Vaccines.
Please read through and discuss with your vet what is the right choice for your Bengal after they leave us.