It is important to remember that the benefits of vaccination far outweigh the small risk of a vaccine reaction.

Vaccination is a highly effective way of preventing disease and the benefits far outweigh the possible side effects.

Common vaccine side effects:

There are some common vaccine side effects that often only last a few days and disappear without treatment:

  • Low energy (lethargy)
  • Eating less
  • Sleeping more
  • Fever (high temperature)
  • Mild swelling around the vaccine site (around 5cm) which can be firm and painful on palpitation. This normally disappears in two weeks but sometimes takes a little longer. 

Less common side effects include:

  • Twitching
  • Itchy skin
  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhoea
  • Limping

If your pet is suffering from mild side effects after a vaccination, monitor them and call us for advice if you are concerned or if their condition gets worse and if their symptoms last for more than 24-48 hours  

In extremely rare cases there can be severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis)

  • Difficulty Breathing
  • Seizures 

Please call us immediately on 0151 203 2000