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My kitten is drowsy and shaking after vaccinations. Is this normal?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

My kitten had his initial injections this morning, was fine during the day but this evening has been acting a little stange, looks drowsy and shaking.

5 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Jennifer Summerfield, DVM CPDT-KA

Veterinarian, Certified Dog Trainer

Published on June 27th, 2016

It can be normal for kittens to be somewhat tired and sore after vaccination, just like human children. Some may run a low-grade fever and not eat well for the first day or so after their shots. What is NOT normal would be any of the following symptoms: repeated vomiting, pale gums, difficulty breathing, or collapse/extreme weakness - these are signs of a serious allergic reaction. This is very rare following vaccination, but if it occurs it can be life-threatening - so if you observe any of these signs, make sure to get your kitten to the vet right away. If she is just tired and sore, it should be fine to monitor her at home - she should be feeling better within the next 24-48 hours.

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Other Answers

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    Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    It sounds like your kitten can be having a reaction to the vaccines. I would recommend taking him into your vet to be examined.

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    Answered By Jennifer Summerfield, DVM CPDT-KA

    Veterinarian, Certified Dog Trainer

    Published on August 3rd, 2019

    Hi there. It can be normal to see some soreness and lethargy in puppies and kittens the day after getting vaccines - just like human kids :) This should improve over the next 2-3 days. Signs of a more serious problem would include things like facial swelling, repeated episodes of vomiting, or difficulty breathing. If any of these issues are seen, then I would recommend taking her back to the vet right away to be checked out.

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    Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

    Veterinarian

    Published on June 25th, 2018

    After having vaccines, kittens can be a little more lethargic than normal. This should pass in 24-48 hours. Keep an eye on Kiara, and if this lethargy doesn't pass or she develops other signs such as vomiting, diarrhea, facial swelling, or difficulty breathing, then I would have her seen by a vet right away. Best of luck, I hope this helps.

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    Answered By Dr. Dayna, DVM, CVA

    Veterinarian, Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist

    Published on September 15th, 2017

    Poor Bud! It is very common for young cats to be lethargic after vaccines. First, the stress of the visit can be exhausting, and then the vaccine itself stimulates the immune system and may cause a small fever. This can last about 12 hours or so. If he has any facial swelling, any vomiting, or is not rousable he should go back to his veterinarian. Vaccine reactions in cats are rare, but they do happen. I hope he feels better soon!

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