🐱 CAT VACCINES

Core Vaccines

Core vaccines are recommended for all dogs or cats because they protect against diseases that are widespread, severe, or pose a public health risk. Shelters, rescues, boarding kennels, and other group environments pose higher risks for contagious diseases — stress and crowding can weaken immunity, and one sick animal can spread infection fast.

1. FVRCP (Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis, Calicivirus, Panleukopenia)
Protects against severe respiratory and gastrointestinal infections.

  • Kittens: Start at 6–8 weeks, repeat every 2–4 weeks until 16–18 weeks.

  • Adults: Booster at 1 year, then every 3 years.

2. Rabies
Protects against a fatal disease that also threatens people.

  • First dose at 12–16 weeks, booster at 1 year, then every 1–3 years depending on vaccine and law.

3. Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV)
Especially important for kittens and young cats who might go outdoors or meet new cats.

  • Kittens: Two doses 2–4 weeks apart, starting at 8 weeks.

  • Adults: Continue yearly if the cat goes outside or lives with other cats of unknown status.

For Some Cats

“For some pets” (risk-based vaccines) are recommended depending on your pet’s daily life, travel, environment, and exposure risk. Your vet will guide you based on where you live and what your pet does.

FeLV (Adults)
Indoor-only cats with no exposure risk may not need yearly boosters after the first-year dose series.

Chlamydia felis
For multi-cat environments with known infection; not needed for most pet cats.

Bordetella bronchiseptica
Rarely needed; sometimes used in shelters or outbreak situations.

Not Recommended:
FIP, FIV, and Giardia vaccines are not routinely used and generally not advised for healthy household pets.

Kitten Schedule (Simplified)

  • 6–8 weeks: FVRCP start

  • 8–12 weeks: FeLV dose #1

  • 10–16 weeks: FeLV dose #2

  • 12–16 weeks: Rabies

  • 1 year later: Boosters for FVRCP, Rabies, FeLV

  • After that: FVRCP every 3 years, Rabies per law, FeLV yearly only if risk continues

🩺 After-Vaccine Care — Dogs & Cats

Mild, short-term reactions after vaccination are normal and show the immune system is responding.

Common, mild reactions (usually resolve within 24–48 hours):

  • Sleepiness or less playful than usual

  • Mild soreness or tenderness where the shot was given

  • A small lump at the injection site (can last up to 2 weeks)

  • Slight decrease in appetite

Call your veterinarian right away if you notice:

  • Facial swelling, hives, or severe itching

  • Repeated vomiting or diarrhea

  • Difficulty breathing, collapse, or fainting

  • Persistent pain or swelling lasting longer than a week

These reactions are rare but can occur. Always let your vet know if your pet has had a vaccine reaction before — adjustments can be made for future visits.

💡 Tip: Keep your pet calm, hydrated, and indoors for 24 hours after vaccination. Avoid strenuous play, long walks, or grooming appointments that same day.