Common Side Effects of Vaccinations : What’s Normal (and What Isn’t)

When it comes to your pet’s health, you want to give them the best shot at living a healthy and long life, just like you would with yourself or your child. One of the most important ways you can do this is by ensuring they get all of their required shots — but did you know that not all vaccines are created equal and sometimes can actually be dangerous for your pets.

In this blog, our Fayetteville-based veterinarians will discuss vaccine side effects on pets and what pet owners can do to help ensure their furry loved ones stay safe during those annual checkups.

Should you vaccinate your pet?

The short answer is yes; you should vaccinate your pet every year — even if your pet does not go outside. There are a number of reasons for this. 

First and foremost, it is for their protection. Vaccines help protect pets from a number of serious and contagious diseases, some of which are transmissible to humans. Secondly, it is required by law in many states. And lastly, it is just good practice. 

In most cases, the advantages of vaccinating your pet outweigh the risk of them suffering any side effects. However, you need to be aware of the potential adverse effects of vaccinations so that you can make the most informed decision possible regarding what is best for your pet.

Can pets get sick from vaccine reactions?

Pets can experience various side effects from vaccines, just like people. While risks associated with veterinary procedures such as vaccinations are not common, they can happen. 

The most common side effect of pet vaccinations is a mild fever, which usually goes away within a day or two. The mild fever may or may not be accompanied by other signs like lethargy and loss of appetite. 

Lumps and bumps are also common side effects of vaccines. A tiny, hard bump can form at the site where the needle entered your pet’s skin. This is a common reaction, but you should keep an eye on the site to ensure that the lump does not become larger or show signs of inflammation, oozing, or infection. The lump should not be painful and go away in about a week.

More severe reactions are rare but can include:

• Anaphylaxis (a life-threatening allergic reaction)
• Persistent vomiting or diarrhea
• Hives
• Facial swelling
• Severe coughing or breathing difficulties

Signs of a serious response usually appear within minutes of receiving the vaccination, although they could take up to 48 hours. 

Keep in mind that serious allergy reactions are a result of an immune reaction to the vaccine. This is the whole point of a vaccine, so this response is completely normal and expected. However, if you suspect your pet has a serious reaction to a vaccine, it is important to contact your Fayetteville veterinarian right away.

Related blog: Ten Signs that You Should Take Your Pet to a Veterinarian – Immediately 

Can your pet die from vaccine reactions?

As mentioned earlier in this blog, most vaccine reactions are mild and do not cause long-term problems. In rare cases, however, pets can have severe reactions that may even be life-threatening. If you are worried about your pet’s safety, talk to your Fayetteville veterinarian about the risks and benefits of vaccination.

How do you minimize risks when vaccinating pets?

As a pet owner, you want to do everything you can to keep your furry friend healthy and safe. That includes vaccinating them against deadly diseases. But as you now know, vaccines can cause side effects in some pets. So what can you do to minimize the risks?

Well, one thing you can do is always let your Fayetteville vet know about any medical concerns your pet has. From there, your vet can work with you to create a vaccination schedule that minimizes future risk. Your vet may also be able to prescribe medications that will help your pet feel better. 

Do I need to delay vaccinations if my pet is ill?

If your pet is ill, you should check with your Fayetteville veterinarian before vaccinating. Some illnesses can cause a decrease in the effectiveness of vaccines or make the side effects more severe. For example, if your pet has cancer or is on immunosuppressive drugs, they may be unable to mount an adequate response to the vaccine. 

Vaccinating an already sick animal can also exacerbate their symptoms and make them feel even worse. If you are unsure whether it is safe to vaccinate your pet, err on the side of caution and wait until they have recovered before scheduling any shots.

Can you give too many vaccinations at once?

It is possible to give your pet too many vaccinations at once. If this happens, your pet may experience side effects such as fever, swelling, and pain at the injection site. In severe cases, your pet may also experience a life-threatening allergic reaction. If you are concerned about these vaccination responses, you should schedule frequent vet appointments with fewer vaccines per visit.

When should I avoid vaccination for my pet?

There are a few times when you should avoid vaccinating your pet. If your pet is pregnant, has an autoimmune disease, is taking certain medications, or is very young or old, they may be more susceptible to the side effects of vaccines. You should always talk to your veterinarian before vaccinating your pet to make sure it is the right decision for them.

Cliffdale Animal Hospital: Experienced Vets You Can Rely On!

If your furry companion is due for their shots, contact us to schedule an appointment. Cliffdale Animal Hospital in Fayetteville, N.C., is home to a team of skilled veterinarians with years of experience delivering the finest pet care services. We can answer any questions you may have about the vaccine process and help ensure your pet is up-to-date on their vaccinations. We also offer a full suite of general practice services to help your pet, including grooming and boarding. Call (910) 487-5013 or fill out this form if you have any questions.