Vets allay pet owner concerns over short-term vaccine shortages

The British Veterinary Association (BVA) has responded to recent media reports about a countrywide shortage of certain pet vaccinations, especially those meant for cats, and has reassured pet owners that a short-term delay shouldn’t be a cause for worry.

The vaccines shortage is thought to be a result of a number of reasons, including an increase in pet ownership during the pandemic leading to a spike in demand for vaccinations and practices needing to catch up on vaccines and boosters that were delayed during lockdown.

Responding to the issue, BVA President Justine Shotton said:

“We have been hearing anecdotally from members about a shortage of certain pet vaccines, especially cat vaccines. We expect this is due to a number of issues, including an increase in pet ownership during the pandemic leading to a rise in demand.

“Vets are working with vaccine suppliers to manage the needs of their clients and may need to prioritise allocations. Your vet may be in contact if delays are likely, but we’d like to emphasise that a short-term delay shouldn’t be cause for concern for either pet or public health.”

BVA is continuing to keep a careful watch on the situation and will share further updates as they become available.