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My cat is sore and not moving after vaccinations. Is it normal?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Persian | Female | spayed | 10 years and 8 months old | 9.4 lbs

My 10 year old female persian cat had both her 3 year rabies and her 1 year FVRCP shots. She seems to be very sore and not wanting to move around much. When she does walk, she is walking very slow like it is hurting her. She is eating, but not active. She had the shots on Monday 11/7/16. She also does not want me to pick her up. Is this normal for a couple of days. She's alert and wags her tail and is purring when I pet her.

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Massimo Orioles, DVM, Cert AVP, MRCVS

Veterinarian

Published on November 9th, 2016

This could be possibly related to the vaccinations. Personally I do not give both vaccinations together as I sometimes noticed these side effects on cats and dogs. I would wait 24-48 hours more before eventually take her back to your veterinarian for a check up. These signs are usually self limiting and do not lead to any complications.

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    Answered By David Elbeze, DVM, MRCVS

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    This is a rare side effect of those vaccinations utility I have seen it happening several times, it usually resolves within 3 to 5 days. I would recommend taking Lexie back to the vet as she could probably benefit from pain killers in the next few days.

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