Veterinary clinics, pharmacies, and animal welfare organizations in Russia are experiencing a critical shortage of vaccines for cats and dogs. This shortage is attributed to stricter product labeling regulations that have effectively removed foreign vaccines from the market and the inability of domestic manufacturers to meet the demand.

The supply disruptions began in April, initially affecting animal welfare volunteers who rely on vaccines to prevent epidemics in shelters and foster homes. Wholesalers are now primarily supplying vaccines to veterinary clinics, but even these clinics are struggling to obtain sufficient quantities.

Clinics report difficulty purchasing essential vaccines such as “Multifel-4,” “Leominor,” “Rabifel,” “Biocan DHPPi+LR,” and “Multican-6.” While some vaccines like “Multican-6” and “Multican-4” are occasionally available, they often lack key components like rabies or leptospirosis protection.

Domestic manufacturers are attempting to increase production to compensate for the absence of imported vaccines. However, they are facing challenges in scaling up production and complying with new regulations like GMP and “Honest Sign” labeling, which requires QR codes on each vial.

State veterinary clinics maintain a sufficient supply of monovalent rabies vaccines. These vaccines, while effective, may be less suitable for older or more vulnerable animals compared to multivalent options like “Multican-4” and “Multican-6.” Despite the challenges, authorities express confidence that the situation will improve, and pet owners will be able to vaccinate their animals before the peak season in June.