WSAVA Releases Revised Global Vaccination Guidelines
The World Small Animal Veterinary Association (WSAVA) has released newly updated global vaccination guidelines for dogs and cats. The latest guidelines, published on April 8, emphasize the importance of the leptospirosis vaccine as a “core” vaccine for dogs in regions where the disease is prevalent. Additionally, the feline leukemia virus (FeLV) vaccine is now recommended as a “core” vaccine for young cats and adult cats that have outdoor access or live with other outdoor cats in areas where FeLV is common.
Key Updates in the 2024 WSAVA Vaccination Guidelines
The updated guidelines, available for download on the WSAVA website, reflect the latest research and expert consensus in veterinary vaccinology. The WSAVA Vaccination Guidelines Group (VGG) began revising the document in 2022, building on previous versions from 2007, 2010, and 2016. Key changes in the updated guidelines include:
- Revised Definition of “Core” Vaccines: Updated rationale for core vaccine designations.
- Maternally Derived Antibodies: New section addressing this topic.
- Emerging Topics in Canine and Feline Vaccinology: Expanded discussion on current issues.
- Vaccines in Shelters and Sanctuaries: Rewritten section for clarity.
- Prophylactic Vaccines Focus: Removal of the “passive immunisation” section to sharpen focus.
- Puppy and Kitten Vaccination Schedule: Recommendation to vaccinate at 26 weeks or older.
- Vaccination Sites for Cats: Further considerations for anatomical sites.
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs): New categorized list to assist veterinarians.
Expert Insights and Practical Resources
Dr. Mary Marcondes, chair of the WSAVA VGG, highlighted the guidelines’ practical value for veterinarians. “The guidelines provide valuable resources for veterinarians to incorporate into their daily practice,” said Dr. Marcondes. “Despite its comprehensive 40-page length, the document is designed for easy reference, featuring succinct tables for quick consultation and sections divided into different topics to aid consultation on specific subjects.”
Regional Vaccination Guidelines and Recommendations
The VGG has also developed Regional Vaccination Guidelines for veterinarians in Asia and Latin America. In 2026, they plan to publish a full set of Regional Vaccination Guidelines for Sub-Saharan Africa.
WSAVA strongly advocates for vaccinating all dogs and cats. This approach not only protects individual animals but also helps minimize the risk of contagious disease outbreaks. The VGG emphasizes that core and selected non-core vaccines should be stored and administered correctly, tailored to each pet’s lifestyle and local disease prevalence, to ensure lifelong protection.
WSAVA Vaccination Guidelines Group Members
The VGG comprises experts from around the world, including:
- Dr. Mary Marcondes, associate professor of small animal internal medicine and infectious diseases at São Paulo State University in Brazil.
- Dr. Richard Squires, associate professor in companion animal medicine at James Cook University in Australia.
- Dr. Cynda Crawford, clinical associate professor in shelter medicine at the University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine.
- Dr. Nathaniel Whitley, clinical director at Davies Veterinary Specialists in the U.K.
For more detailed information and to download the updated guidelines, visit the WSAVA website.
