The RSPCA and the British Veterinary Association (BVA) have issued warnings that fewer cat owners are keeping up to date with cat vaccinations.

An RSPCA branch revealed that more than 20 cats and kittens in its care had died from conditions that vaccines could have prevented during the first quarter of this year. The RSPCA has reported a worrying surge in cat virus / disease cases, warning that low vaccination rates may be leaving pets vulnerable to preventable illnesses.

The Bigger Picture on Cat Vaccinations 

• There are around 10.6 million cats in the UK.
• Of these, about 66% are vaccinated.

At first glance, that sounds reassuring. But look closer:
👉  That leaves around 3.5 million cats unvaccinated.

Why are cat vaccinations so important?

Unvaccinated cats are at significant risk of contracting infectious diseases and play a role in facilitating their transmission within the wider feline population. Due to their roaming behaviour, cats are likely to encounter and spread pathogens between households, other pets, and free-roaming cats.

Vaccination is therefore recommended for all cats, with particular emphasis on those with outdoor access, those living in multi-cat environments, and those requiring admission to catteries. Ensuring appropriate vaccination not only protects individual patients but also contributes to population-level disease control.

🛡️ Protect Against Serious Diseases

Cat vaccines protect against common but potentially deadly conditions such as:

• Cat flu (feline herpesvirus & calicivirus) – causes painful ulcers, respiratory problems, and lifelong carrier status.

• Feline enteritis (panleukopenia) – often fatal, especially in kittens.

• Feline leukaemia virus (FeLV) – weakens the immune system, leading to cancers and chronic illness.

🌍 Protect Other Cats

Even if your cat seems healthy, they can spread infections. Vaccinating reduces the overall spread of disease, protecting vulnerable cats in the community — especially kittens and those with weaker immune systems.

🩺 Early Health Checks

Every vaccination appointment includes a vet check-up. This is often when early signs of illness are spotted (like dental disease, weight issues, or heart murmurs) — catching problems before they become serious.

🐾 Peace of Mind

Vaccines are one of the simplest ways to make sure your cat lives a longer, healthier, happier life. They’re a small step with huge benefits.

Vaccination = Protection
💉 Protect your cat.
💉 Protect others.
💉 Protect the future.

Special offer on Cat vaccinations at Orchard House Veterinary Centres

💉 Cat vaccination restarts (£98.50) for the price of a cat booster vaccination (£59.50) 💉 

RSPCA officials are urging a collective effort to boost vaccination take-up, stressing that routine vaccinations not only protect individual cats but also reduce the spread of disease within the wider feline community. The British Veterinary Association (BVA) described the warning as a “timely reminder” of the importance of keeping cats’ vaccines up to date.

We understand that when a cat’s vaccination has lapsed, restarting the full vaccination course can be more expensive and may make it harder for owners to get back on track.

That’s why, throughout October, we are offering cat vaccination restarts (normally £98.50) for the price of a booster vaccination (£59.50).

This will include two appointments, two weeks apart. At your cat’s first appointment, they will also receive a full health check with our veterinary team.

Already up to date with vaccinations but concerned about the cost?

Have you considered joining our Well Pet Club? For just £13.95 per month (for cats), the plan spreads the cost of essential preventative care over 12 months.

Membership includes:

• Annual booster vaccination

• 12 months’ flea and worm treatment

• Unlimited nurse clinics

• Discounts on food and more

The Well Pet Club helps you keep on top of your cat’s healthcare while making costs more manageable.

🐾 How to Make Use of Our October Special Offer 🐾

If your cat needs to restart their vaccination course, the discount will be applied automatically — no voucher or code needed.

📅 Any appointments booked during October will be honoured, even if the second visit falls in November.

📞 To book your cat’s appointment, simply contact our team

More information

For more information on why cat vaccinations are so important, Download this handy leaflet