May 2026 Issue

May 2026 | EAST COAST EQUESTRIAN 33 By Dr. Brigid Sexton Quakertown Veterinary Clinic You’d be hard-pressed to find a busy barn without a furry feline or two serving as pest control—and all valuable employees deserve health benefits. Proper care of barn cats is essential to prevent infectious disease, limit parasite spread, and help these loyal companions thrive in their role for as long as possible. Routine veterinary oversight, even for outdoor or semi-feral cats, plays an important role in early disease detection and overall herd health management within the barn envi- ronment. At a minimum, all barn cats should stay up to date on rabies and feline viral respiratory (FVRCP) vaccines. The FVRCP vaccine pro- tects against feline rhinotracheitis (a herpesvirus), calicivirus, and pan- leukopenia (feline distemper). Although many outdoor cats are naturally exposed to these viruses, vaccination helps reduce the severity and duration of illness during periods of stress or re-exposure. Kittens should receive their first FVRCP vaccine at 6–8 weeks of age, followed by boosters every 3–4 weeks until 16 weeks. After the final booster, another dose is given at one year of age, and then every three years thereafter.The rabies vaccine is typically administered at 16 weeks, again at one year, and then every three years for life. Feral cats are a major contributor to declines in native bird and wildlife pop- ulations, making spaying and neutering barn cats especially important. Most cats can safely undergo these procedures at 3–6 months of age under general anesthesia at a veterinary clinic. After surgery, cats should be confined to a tack or feed room for a couple of weeks to allow proper heal- ing and to prevent incision complications. Outdoor cats are also exposed to a va- riety of parasites that can spread to other animals. Common concerns include fleas, ticks, ear mites, heartworm, and intestinal parasites. Several topical preventatives— such as Revolution Plus, NexGard Combo, and Bravecto Plus—offer broad protection. Of these options, NexGard Combo is often recommended because it also targets tapeworms. Regardless of the product chosen, consistent use ac- cording to label directions (monthly or bimonthly) is key, and periodic fecal testing can help ensure parasite control programs remain effective. Leaving cat food out in the barn can attract unwanted wildlife, such as the Virginia opossum, which is a known carrier of equine protozoal myeloencephalitis (EPM). To help reduce the risk of this serious dis- ease, store cat food securely behind closed doors and keep it separate from horse feed or forage. By keeping your barn cats healthy and well cared for, you’ll gain a hard worker as well as a loyal companion for many years to come. Healthy Barn Cats Make for Healthier Barns Vaccination, parasite control, and smart management help working cats thrive while protecting horses and the barn environment. midatlanticceilings.com