Cat Vaccination Schedule and Requirements: Protecting Your Feline

Vaccinating your cat or kitten is a fundamental part of responsible pet ownership, protecting them from several serious and potentially life-threatening infectious diseases. Understanding the types of vaccines and a typical schedule will help you work with your veterinarian to ensure your feline friend stays healthy. This is crucial throughout all cat life stages.

Cat Vaccination Schedule

The Importance of Cat Vaccinations

Kittens receive passive immunity from their mother’s milk, but this protection fades, leaving them vulnerable. Vaccinations stimulate their immune system to develop its own defenses against specific diseases. Even indoor cats can be exposed to airborne viruses or viruses carried on clothing or shoes, making vaccination important for all felines.

Core vs. Non-Core Vaccines for Cats

Feline vaccines are generally categorized as core or non-core by veterinary organizations like the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) and American Association of Feline Practitioners (AAFP).

  • Core Vaccines: Recommended for all cats and kittens due to the severity and prevalence of the diseases.
    • Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis (FVR, Herpesvirus-1)
    • Feline Calicivirus (FCV)
    • Feline Panleukopenia (FPV, Feline Distemper) – These three are often combined in the “FVRCP” or “3-in-1” vaccine.
    • Rabies Virus: Legally required in many areas.
  • Non-Core (Lifestyle) Vaccines: Recommended based on a cat’s individual risk of exposure.
    • Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV): Recommended for all kittens (due to unknown future lifestyle) and adult cats at risk (e.g., those that go outdoors or live with FeLV-positive cats). Testing for FeLV is crucial before vaccination.
    • Chlamydia felis: May be recommended in multi-cat environments where chlamydial conjunctivitis is an issue.
    • Bordetella bronchiseptica: Less common, but may be considered in high-risk environments.
    • Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV): Vaccination is less common and has complexities (can interfere with future FIV testing); discuss thoroughly with your vet if considering.

Typical Kitten Vaccination Schedule (Example)

Your veterinarian will create a specific schedule. Kittens usually start their vaccine series around 6-8 weeks of age and receive boosters every 3-4 weeks until they are about 16-20 weeks old.

  • 6-8 Weeks Old:
    • FVRCP – 1st dose
  • 10-12 Weeks Old:
    • FVRCP – 2nd dose
    • FeLV – 1st dose (if recommended, after FeLV testing)
  • 14-16 Weeks Old (or older, up to 20 weeks):
    • FVRCP – 3rd dose (and possibly a 4th depending on vet protocol)
    • FeLV – 2nd dose (if recommended)
    • Rabies – 1st dose (typically given around 12-16 weeks, as per local law)

After the Kitten Series:

  • Booster Vaccinations: Cats usually receive boosters for core vaccines (and FeLV if applicable) one year after their kitten series.
  • Adult Cat Vaccinations: After the one-year boosters, FVRCP is often given every 1-3 years. Rabies vaccine frequency (1 or 3 years) depends on the vaccine type and local laws. FeLV may be continued annually for at-risk cats.

Important Considerations:

  • Indoor vs. Outdoor: While indoor cats have lower risk for some diseases like FeLV (if they never encounter other cats), core vaccines are still vital. Your vet will assess risk for cats with outdoor access.
  • Vaccine Reactions: Mild, temporary reactions like lethargy or soreness are possible. Serious reactions are rare but require immediate veterinary attention. Discuss any concerns with your vet.
  • Vaccine-Associated Sarcomas (VAS): A rare but serious concern with some injectable vaccines in cats. Vets often administer vaccines in specific locations to manage this risk.

Vaccinations are a key component of preventative healthcare, helping your cat live a long and healthy life. Always follow your veterinarian’s recommendations. And as they grow, our cat age calculator can be a fun way to track their age in human years!