A cornerstone of preventive care, vaccinations offer your cat or kitten protection against a host of serious diseases and illnesses. Here, our Pico Rivera vets provide an outline of recommended vaccines and why your cat needs them.
What shots do cats and kittens need?
There may be variations in schedules due to factors such as pre-existing health conditions and indoor/outdoor living situations. We've provided an approximate schedule below, based on an average indoor cat. Your vet can provide specific information and the schedule they recommend for your unique pet. Note that this vaccination schedule is for both indoor and outdoor cats.
Kitten Vaccination Schedule
6 - 10 Weeks
- FVRCP for Rhinotracheitis, Calicivirus, Panleukopenia (also known as feline distemper)
- Rabies vaccine*
- FeLV Feline leukemia
- FIV Booster for Feline immunodeficiency virus
- Feline herpesvirus
- Bordatella
- Chlamydia
11 - 14 Weeks
- FVRCP for Rhinotracheitis, Calicivirus, Panleukopenia (also known as feline distemper)
- FeLV Feline leukemia
- FIV Booster for Feline immunodeficiency virus
15+ Weeks
- FVRCP final booster for Rhinotracheitis, Calicivirus, Panleukopenia (also known as feline distemper)
- FeLV Feline leukemia
- FIV Booster for Feline immunodeficiency virus
Adult Cat Vaccination Schedule
Annually
- Rabies vaccine*
- FeLV Feline leukemia
- Bordatella
Every 3 Years
- Panleukopenia (feline distemper)
- Calicivirus
- Feline herpesvirus
*Rabies: Rabies is 100% fatal. There is no treatment is available, and it's contagious. Prevention is crucial. The rabies vaccination may be required annually or every 3 years, depending on the vaccine used.
Other Vaccinations
Depending on where you live, your cat's history, risk levels for certain diseases, and other factors, your veterinarian may recommend additional vaccinations not included on this list. For the best care for your cat or kitten, always follow your veterinarian's advice.Possible Side Effects
Most cats will have no side effects from vaccinations, or they may have a brief or minor reaction to the medication. However, if you notice any of the following side effects, contact your veterinarian right away to see if additional treatment is required.
- High fever
- Vomiting or diarrhea
- Immobility or limping
- Lethargy
- Swelling near the area of injection
- Loss of appetite
The Importance of Vaccinations
As a pet owner, you owe it to your kitten or cat to provide care that will allow them to live long, healthy lives. Vaccinations are a preventive measure that can help people avoid serious, and sometimes fatal, diseases. It is always preferable to prevent a disease than to treat it once it has developed.
Vaccines are important for all cats and kittens, but cats that spend time outdoors may require other specific vaccinations as well. Indoor/outdoor cats can come into contact with other animals, diseases, or parasites that make them vulnerable to more illnesses.
Speak with your vet to determine the right vaccination schedule for your cat or kitten.