When pet owners think about immunizations, the first thing they think of is cats and dogs. But did you know that exotic pets need vaccinations as well? If you are brave enough to take on a ferret or rabbit as a pet, you will need to get them immunized as well. Keep reading to learn more about what vaccines your pet needs during National Immunization Awareness Month. 

When to Immunize

For cats and dogs, immunizations are typically given around 8 to 12 weeks old, but with ferrets, they should receive their first vaccination around 12 weeks old. In some cases, your veterinarian may recommend immunization earlier. Rabbits are slightly more high maintenance as they receive a set of immunizations as early as five weeks old. 

Immunizations Needed

Immunization for rabbits and ferrets is fairly straightforward. Ferrets only need one vaccine: canine distemper. Canine distemper is a virus that is contagious and can cause respiratory and neurological problems for your ferret. On the other hand, rabbits have a short list of vaccines that are needed which are rabbit haemorrhagic disease 1 and 2 (RHD 1 and 2), and Myxomatosis. RHD is a deadly virus that can be spread through multiple routes such as saliva, urine, feces, and blood. It can cause seizures and bleeding from several cavities of your rabbit’s body. Myxomatosis is contagious and can easily be spread to other rabbits in the home or through flea and mosquito bites.

Booster Shots

Thankfully, there is not a long list of immunizations for these animals, so booster shots are easy to remember as they are recommended to be administered annually to maintain protection. Depending on your pet’s risk of exposure to the above mentioned diseases, your veterinarian may not feel boosters are necessary. You can also ask your veterinarian about titre testing to determine if your pet is having an allergic reaction or if there are enough antibodies to continue protecting your animals.

Speak with your veterinarian about getting your pets immunized.