Why aren't kittens allowed out?

[poppincandy]

I have two kittens aged 10.5 weeks. They have had their first lot of injections and are due to go back in a week and a half for their second lot.

Now I have read that kittens aren't to go out until at least a week if not two weeks after their 2nd lot of injections.

I have no problem with this per se, but one of our kittens, really really wants to go out when the children are playing in the back garden, and will sit meowing pitifully by the back door. What are the consequences if he went outside and was carefully supervised by myself, and not allowed to go out of the garden - if necessary I would even purchase harness and lead if that would mean you wise MN would say he could go outside.

Hi, I think it's because it can take up to 2 weeks for the antibodies sparked by the vaccinations to build up enough to protect them. Could be totally wrong, but that was what I was told about my puppy so I assume it's similar with little cats.

I was read the riot act by my vet about not letting the puppy out because of parvovirus which can live in the soild for up to 2yrs, is carried by loads of animals (foxes, birds etc) and is pretty fatal if dogs catch it. As I understand it (again, could be TOTALLY wrong) this virus mutated from cat distemper so if you can possible stick with keeping them inside, it might be worth it.

Have fun with your little puss pusses

Gardenpixie is exactly right in the case of cats the biggest risk is Feline panleucopaenia a disease similar to parvo in dogs.
The problem is you don't know the vaccination status of other cats who may use your garden and could spread the virus.
Personally as a vet I have always held off until 2 weeks after my kitties are fully vaccinated.