When a kitten or a puppy is born their immune system is largely undeveloped leaving them entirely exposed and vulnerable to infection. It is extremely important that they suck the first milk, known as clostrum, from their mother within the first 24 hours. By doing so they receive vital maternal antibodies which ensure a degree of protection from infectious disease. However, this immunity dwindles after the 6th week of life and thereafter they are vulnerable again.

Vaccination ensure that young cats dogs and rabbits have protection from fatal diseases. The initial vaccination courses comprise two injections into the skin. Because the immune system is only mature at 12 weeks of age, we start the first injection at 8-9 weeks of age and end with a second at 12 weeks of age. To prevent exposure to infection confinement to the home and the garden is advisable.