Final answer:
Common vaccine reactions include local and systemic responses, with the latter being less common. Adverse reactions are more likely in cats around 1-2 years old, and when numerous vaccines are given at once or in large volumes.
Step-by-step explanation:
The most commonly reported vaccine reactions are local reactions, such as swelling or redness at the injection site, and systemic reactions, which can include fever, lethargy, and allergic reactions like urticaria (hives) or anaphylaxis. In the Banfield Pet Hospital population, the risk of an adverse reaction was greatest in cats around 1-2 years of age and/or increased as the total volume of vaccine and the number of vaccines administered concurrently increased. This shows the importance of tailored vaccine schedules and vigilance in monitoring animals post-vaccination, especially in younger animals or those receiving multiple vaccines at once.
Understanding these risks helps veterinarians and pet owners to make informed decisions about vaccination protocols. For example, spacing out vaccines or lowering the volume given at one time could potentially reduce the risk of adverse reactions. It is crucial that vaccines are administered responsibly to maintain the balance between protecting the population at large from diseases like rabies, and minimizing the risks to individual animals.