Vaccination reactions are usually mild and settle within a day or two. Serious allergic reactions are uncommon but need immediate help.
Your first steps
What to do at home
- Allow a quieter day after vaccination.
- Offer water and normal meals without forcing food.
- Avoid pressing or massaging the injection area.
- Monitor your pet during the first few hours.
- Do not give human antihistamines or painkillers unless instructed.
Things that often settle
- Mild tiredness
- Slight tenderness at the injection site
- A temporary small lump
- Eating a little less for one meal
Things we want to know about
- Facial swelling, hives or sudden itching
- Breathing difficulty or collapse
- Persistent vomiting or diarrhoea
- Extreme weakness
- A lump that grows, becomes painful or does not reduce
Medication safety
Only give what has been prescribed.
Human painkillers—including ibuprofen and paracetamol—can be dangerous to pets. Contact the practice before adding, stopping or changing any medicine.