Archive for July 15th, 2010

Possible Vaccine Problem

Thursday, July 15th, 2010

Pets By Penny doesn’t give medical advice. This problem is worth acknowledging and informing those who will want to investigate before using the product though, just as with any product with a poor review or reports of problems.

One rescue had an experience this week with Fort Dodge Leukemia vaccines. On July 7, they vaccinated 20 cats with Fort Dodge’s Fel-O-Vax-Lv-K vaccine (167346B, exp.2/20/11).

ALL 20 cats spiked high temperatures within a few hours of receiving the vaccine.  Some temps went over 105, and six cats went to emergency care (one with seizures). All cats with problems received fluids and metacam and benadryl.

Thankfully, the cats seem to be rebounding today.  In eight years, the rescue that experienced this problem has never never seen anything like this.

I haven’t talked to Fort Dodge or done any other investigation. This is just one report from a reputable rescue group, but it’s worth noting and checking further if you are vaccinating your pets or work in veterinary care.

Fort Dodge  apparently couldn’t offer any further explanation when the group contacted them.  The rescue group subsequently decided they will no longer use the Fort Dodge products. Of course, each doctor and organization must make their own decision and do appropriate research on their own.  Remember, every problem has a first incident. The manufacturer may have more information later, after doing their own research.

If  you have the same lot,  contact your rep or vendor and return the product, until this issue is resolved. Or, take a copy of this info to discuss with your vet before receiving vaccinations. Your doctor may have already been in touch with the manufacturer and have additional information.

This report is only one instance heard about by Pets By Penny.  However, any product with a sudden change in quality, side effects, unusual number of reactions, or unusual reactions of some other type, should be investigated and consumers deserve to know if there is any question at all about safety.

The organization that had the problem is in no way connected to Pets by Penny, and they bear no responsibility for this post. My information is collected from a variety of resources, and every effort is made to be sure it is as fair and accurate as possible. Always consult your veterinarian and let him or her guide you, especially if there are unusual questions or concerns.