Merial has announced the launch of Viral Cats, a national campaign designed to educate one million cat owners about the importance of vaccination.Merial has announced the launch of Viral Cats, a national campaign designed to educate one million cat owners about the importance of vaccination.

According to PDSA research, approximately 3.9 million cats in the UK are not up to date with their vaccinations and around 2.7 million cats have never been vaccinated1.

As part of the campaign, Merial is pushing a series of animations to cat owners via Facebook, which link to the campaign website: www.viralcats.co.uk. The website offers detailed information about the importance of vaccination and interactive content including a 'risk checker' quiz.

The 'risk checker' quiz will ask owners a series of questions to find out whether their cat is up to date with its vaccinations. If not, they'll be directed to speak to their vet. If the vet recommends restarting the primary vaccination course, owners will be able to download an amnesty voucher – directing them to participating practices to get their pet back on track. For those who are up-to-date with their cat’s vaccinations, but want to help spread the word, there will be a competition and prize.

Aiz Baig, product manager at Merial, said: "This campaign is really exciting for Merial, offering us a great opportunity to reach and educate cat owners on the importance of vaccination, which of course will drive footfall into practices."

There are several ways veterinary practices can get involved with the campaign: 

  1. Use Merial's animations on your social media channels and encourage your followers to share. All practices that get 100 shares by 31st May will be entered into a prize draw to win a coffee machine worth £500. Speak to your Merial Territory Manager to take part.
  2. Like the Facebook page – Viral Cats UK
  3. Run your own vaccination amnesty in practice to take advantage of the national offer (materials available via your Merial Territory Manager or via practicesupport.merial.co.uk)
  4. You can also download the ‘Give Them Just What they Need’ Guide at practicesupport.merial.co.uk (where you will also find other exclusive materials or ask your regional Merial Territory Manager for a copy

To find out more about the campaign, or take part, contact your regional Merial Territory Manager.

References:

  1. PDSA PAW Report 2014

PS: Whilst you're here, take a moment to see our latest job opportunities for vet nurses.