Which of the following was NOT included in the core vaccines given to cats?

The correct answer is that Bordetella is not included in the core vaccines given to cats. Core vaccines are those that are considered essential for all cats, as they protect against diseases that are widespread, severe, or highly contagious. The core vaccines generally include rabies, feline calicivirus, and feline panleukopenia.

Rabies vaccination is crucial not only for individual cat health but also for public health, given the zoonotic potential of the rabies virus. Feline calicivirus is important because it contributes to upper respiratory infections and can cause significant illness in cats. Feline panleukopenia, often referred to as feline distemper, is a highly contagious viral disease that can be fatal, making it critical for all cats to be vaccinated against it.

Bordetella, while it can be important in certain circumstances, particularly for cats exposed to other cats in shelters or boarding facilities, is considered a non-core vaccine. This means it is not necessary for all cats and is recommended based on risk factors, rather than being a routine part of the vaccination schedule for the general population of cats.