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FAQ: FAQ

Why should I vaccinate my cat against Rabies if he/she is an indoor only cat?

Indoor only cats are not completely protected from exposure to other rabid animals as indoor cats are almost never completely kept inside. It is not uncommon for an indoor cat to dash out an open door, to climb out a window, or even to fall through a screened window (on purpose or inadvertently). Many cats are taught to walk on a leash so they can go outside and even those cats who don’t walk on a leash may be carried outside in their owner’s arms. Once outside, a cat who wishes to escape will find some way to do so and any adventure outside carries with it the potential of exposure to something harmful (including a wild animal).
Then, too, rabid animals act irrationally and it’s not unusual for a wild animal who lives near people (in rural areas, suburbs, or even in the city) and who normally ignores or avoids people, to enter peoples’ home. Rabid bats especially, but even skunks and raccoons, have entered homes and when they do, people and pets can be exposed to the virus.

How can I check on my pet during their stay?

During your cats stay at Cozy Maple, you are more than welcome to message me directly for an update on your kitty. I send pictures or videos at no additional cost, multiple times a week. Or feel free to message me directly for updates anytime at (250)730-0631.

My cat is an indoor cat, is Cozy Maple suitable for her?

Yes, Cozy Maple provides a large walkout outdoor catio, as well as rooms that are specifically designed to allow plenty of room to play and climb. Our rooms also provide guests with large windows for viewing the scenic country setting and bird watching. We spend lots of time with each cat individually each day and provide interactive toys and play items for stimulation. Of course, feel free to bring your kitties favourite toys with you.

I am anxious about leaving my cat as I have never done this before.

Our approach depends entirely on the individual cat. It’s important to have as much information as possible about each cats unique personalities. It’s useful for owners to bring something such as a blanket or a shirt that smells of home.  The familiar scents provide reassurance for the cat to make them feel secure. We are more than happy to keep you updated by telephone/e-mail/text as often as you need. The more information we have about your cat’s likes/dislikes/habits the easier it will be for us to settle them.

My cat is on a special diet. Can their needs be accommodated?

At Cozy Maple we will tailor to your cats special needs. We have refrigerators/ freezers on site for raw food. Or if they are on a strict feeding schedule we will do our best to follow your schedule.

What do you supply for overnight boarding?

At Cozy Maple we supply everything your cat needs to feel comfortable! The only thing you need to provide is their regular food. We provide the best cat litter, there are two to choose from. Tidy Cats, clay litter or Exquisicat, Naturals paper pellets, it’s your choice!  We supply comfortable beds, a scratcher, toys, and feeding bowls. And of course lots of cuddles and playtime.

When should my kitten get their first shots?

Your kitten should have their first round of shots at approximately 6-8 weeks of age. Always check with your vet on when to vaccinate your kitten, and how often.

Vaccinating your senior cat

Despite the well-known benefits of vaccination, the practice of vaccinating senior cats annually is controversial. Some veterinarians believe that annual revaccination is a critical part of preventative health care. Some research indicates that the immune system of older animals is not as effective as younger animals. This suggests that older cats may be more susceptible to diseases and therefore require annual vaccinations. Others suggest that there is little scientific information to suggest that annual revaccination of older cats is necessary for some diseases because immunity to many viruses probably persists for the life of the animal. For this reason, many veterinarians do not think that annual vaccination is worth the risk of allergic reaction, vaccine-induced sarcoma or immune diseases.

The one thing that many veterinarians agree on is that cats should only be vaccinated against those diseases for which they are susceptible. For example, if your cat is indoors and not exposed to stray cats or new family feline additions, vaccinating for feline leukemia and feline infectious peritonitis is not recommended. If your cat is at risk for feline infectious peritonitis, many feline veterinarians recommend that a blood test be performed to see if the cat has been exposed to coronavirus. If the coronavirus titer in the cat is elevated (indicating exposure), the vaccination will not be effective and should be avoided.

Rabies should be given based on local laws. In some areas, Rabies vaccination must be given every year. In other areas, local law allows vaccination to be given every three years.

The foremost recommendation is to discuss the vaccination program with your veterinarian. Don’t hesitate to ask questions about the pros and cons of vaccinations.

For cats older than 8 to 10 years of age, annual revaccination should be discussed with your veterinarian. There is no nationally accepted standard at this time. Many veterinarians stagger booster immunizations over a number of years. Typical boosters include vaccines against feline panleukopenia (“distemper”) and the upper respiratory viruses (herpesvirus, calicivirus).

If the risk of feline leukemia virus exposure is significant (out-of-doors cats), the leukemia virus vaccine sequence should be administered. If the cat is not at risk, many veterinarians do not recommend the feline leukemia virus vaccination. Other vaccines are given on a case-by-case basis. Some veterinarians use traditional “shots” for vaccination while others use a combination of injections and intra-nasal vaccines.

PLEASE CHECK WITH YOUR VETERINARIAN WHETHER VACCINATIONS FOR YOUR SENIOR PET ARE SAFE OR RECOMMEND, A NOTE FROM YOUR VET MAY BE USED AS AN EXEMPTION FROM REQUIRING VACCINATIONS AT COZY MAPLE.

Source:Petplace.com

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