It's a no-brainer, but your cat must be immunised to protect her from harmful, sometimes fatal, disease.

As most cats are adequately vaccinated against major infectious diseases, many feline diseases are relatively uncommon. But failing to immunise your cat not only puts her at risk, but also all other cats in your area and even the wild cat population.

All cats must be immunised against the 'big three' diseases:

1. Feline Infectious Enteritis (FIE), an often-fatal infection of the intestines, causing loss of appetite, fever, vomiting and diarrhoea.
2. Feline Calcivirus (FCV), a severe virus causing ulcers.
3. Feline Rhinotracheitis (FVR), which causes flu-like symptoms.

Together, these three vaccinations are commonly known as 'flu and enteritis'.

Vaccination is also recommended against the Feline Leukaemia Virus (FeLV), which affects the immune system and is usually fatal.

In the last five years, vaccinations have now also become available to protect your cat from FIV or feline AIDS. Speak to your vet about whether your cat should be protected.

Vaccinations start between six and eight weeks, with a booster required at 12 weeks and sometimes even 16 weeks for some vaccinations.