A national shortage of cat vaccines has led to limited supplies at Lort Smith’s North Melbourne and Campbellfield locations, with new stock not expected until July 2024 at the earliest. Here’s what you need to know to keep your feline friends safe during this time:
For Existing Customers and Shelter Intake:
Lort Smith will reserve its limited supply for existing customers’ cats and kittens, as well as for shelter intake.
Maintaining Protection:
Cats with regular annual vaccines will maintain ongoing immunity to vaccinated diseases, with maximum protection lasting up to 12 months. While immunity may wane slightly over time, a delay of up to three months is unlikely to significantly reduce protection.
Indoor confinement and avoidance of interaction with other cats are recommended to minimize risks, especially for unvaccinated cats.
Kitten Protection:
Kittens are at higher risk due to lower immunity levels. Quarantine inside the home environment is advised to avoid exposure to unvaccinated cats outside.
Cattery Visits:
Cats entering catteries are considered moderate risk. If up-to-date with vaccinations, there’s no cause for concern. However, if a vaccination booster is due, consult with the cattery regarding specific requirements.
Annual Health Check-ups:
Delayed vaccination boosters by one or two months will not severely impact protection. General health checks can still be scheduled, but vaccination services are unavailable until regular supplies resume.
Booking Information:
Online bookings for cat vaccinations are suspended due to vaccine stock shortages. Any existing bookings will be canceled.
Stray Cat Encounters:
Lort Smith cannot accept stray animals due to the vaccine shortage. Contact the local council for guidance on stray animals. Lost animals brought to Lort Smith will be transferred to the Lost Dogs’ Home or the RSPCA.
