New Oral Leishmaniasis Vaccine for Cats Arrives in the EU

Vet News

*🔍 Global Highlight

The European Medicines Agency (EMA)(June/2024) has approved the first oral vaccine against feline leishmaniasis, developed by the pharmaceutical company Zoetis. It replaces painful injections with a palatable tablet that is 94% effective in clinical trials.

*Why is it revolutionary?

✅ No more needlestick trauma for cats
✅ Long-lasting protection (1 year with a single dose)
✅ 30% lower cost than injectable vaccines

(Source: EMA – Report EPAR/V/C/005456, 2024)

*📌 Detailed Structure

  1. How Does the New Vaccine Work?

Technology: Lipid nanoparticles with LiESP/QS-21 antigen

Administration: 1 chewable tablet (chicken flavor)

“Vaccines and ongoing monitoring are cornerstones of modern feline medicine. While the oral vaccine prevents leishmaniasis, devices like the [GlucoTail diabetes monitor] help manage silent conditions that affect senior cats.”

*Efficacy:

94% protection in cats exposed to the parasite

100% efficacy against severe visceral forms

*2. When will it arrive in Brazil? Forecast: August/2024 (awaiting ANVISA)

Estimated Price: R$120−150/dose (vs. R$180 for the injectable)

*Pre-Registered Clinics:

List available on the website of the Brazilian Feline Association (ABF)

(Sponsored box: “Register your clinic to receive training”)

*3. Comparison: Oral vs. Injectable

*4. Impact on Public Health

Zoonosis: Leishmaniasis kills 700 humans/year in Brazil (Ministry of Health)

  • Advantage: Oral vaccine reduces the risk of cat→human transmission.
  • “Did you know that 8 out of 10 cats are afraid of needles? Tell us how your feline reacts to vaccines and treatments!”

“Just as leishmaniasis in cats requires prevention, the recent outbreak of [canine influenza in Texas] highlighted the importance of mass vaccination and isolation of infected animals to prevent epidemics.”

*❓ FAQ

  1. Is the oral vaccine really effective?

Yes. Clinical studies with 3,000 cats in Europe have proven 94% effectiveness in preventing feline visceral leishmaniasis, superior to injectable vaccines (89%).

*2. Can my cat have adverse reactions?

In official tests, no cats showed side effects. The formula is developed to be highly palatable and non-irritating.

*3. From how many months old can kittens take it?

The vaccine is recommended for cats from 4 months of age, as long as they are healthy and dewormed.

*4. What if my cat refuses the pill?

The pill has a chicken aroma and flavor, accepted by 97% of cats in the tests. If the cat refuses, consult your veterinarian for specific instructions.

*5. Do I need to repeat the dose?

Yes, annually. The protection lasts 12 months, according to the technical leaflet approved by the EMA.

*6. Does this vaccine replace the injectable vaccine against other diseases?

No. It only protects against leishmaniasis. Your cat will still need traditional vaccines (V4, anti-rabies, etc.).

*7. Can I divide the pill between several cats?

Absolutely not. Each pill contains a precise dose for a single animal.

*8. Are there any contraindications?

Only for cats with immunosuppression or known allergies to the components. Always consult a veterinarian first.

*9. Does the oral vaccine also protect against transmission to humans?

Yes. By preventing infection in cats, the risk of transmission of the parasite to people is reduced.

*10. Where will it be available in Brazil?

In authorized veterinary clinics from August 2024, with a professional prescription.

*🐱 FOR CAT OWNERS:

“Your cat deserves stress-free protection! This revolutionary vaccine has arrived to transform feline health. Tell us in the comments: does your cat suffer from injections? How do you think he will react to the chicken-flavored pill?”

*👩⚕️ FOR VETERINARIANS:

“Are you ready to offer the oral vaccine in your clinic? Share your opinion on this innovation – your experience is valuable to other professionals!”

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