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Why is my cat so sick, in pain, and breathing hard after shots?

Updated on September 23, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | American Shorthair | Female | spayed | 9 lbs

Hello My cat got shots yesterday I think they said distemper and feline leukemia? Last night and today she has been very ill, you can’t touch the leg she got the shot in without her screaming and she has barely moved today and she is having a very hard time breathing. She has had a runny nose since we got her and she has been on antibiotics and it did nothing. We already took her to the vet today and they didn’t do much. Please help! I’m very worried. ~Sammie

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Lindsey Edwards MVB, BSc, IVCA

Answered By Lindsey Edwards MVB, BSc, IVCA

Veterinarian

Published on February 21, 2020

Poor Freddie. Such extreme and painful reactions are very uncommon and I recommend returning to your vet for a second opinion and additional pain relief and monitoring of her breathing. Hospitalization may be required depending on progression
Vote Icon2Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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