Updated On September 23rd, 2025
Pet's info: Cat | Domestic Shorthair | Male | unneutered | 3 months and 21 days old | 5 lbs
My 16 week old kittens got their rabbits shot today and have been breathing like their congested. Is this a sign of a reaction to the vaccine? They've been sleeping since they got home. The one has been itching quite a bit and the other isn't acting like himself
1 Answer
Published on September 9th, 2017
It is possible it is a vaccine reaction- if they seem otherwise normal- eating well, drinking, still playful, etc then it is okay to give them 1-2 days to see how they respond. If they seem really lethargic, aren't eating, are having difficult breathing or and really 'off' it would be safer to have them seen. Another thought is that some cats are exposed to upper respiratory viruses as kittens and they re-emerge during times of stress (eg a vet visit). If they become mildly stuff after visits or on/off during the year you may want to discuss anti-viral medications with your vet. I hope this helps and that they feel much better soon!
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