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Do cats need a distemper shot? What vaccines are essential for them?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Domestic Shorthair | Female | spayed | 18.5 lbs

I didn't get an answer for my question yesterday, Mitzi has been getting very aggressive lately, atacking us and scratching us badly, jumping on the back of our legs. Do cats need distemper shot ? Thank you.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on December 13th, 2019

I'm sorry you didn't get an answer yesterday! The distemper shot does not fix temperament, it's to protect against a deadly disease in dogs. No, cats do not get distemper like dogs do, they get feline panleukopenia virus.

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