There are a number of conditions or illnesses that can cause harm to your feline friend but luckily many are entirely preventable. Here, our Brentwood vets share the recommended vaccination schedule to help protect your cat or kitten from serious diseases.
Indoor Cat and Kitten Vaccination Schedule
Vaccination schedules for cats will be dependent on the lifestyle and health of the kitty. Here we share what a standard vaccine schedule looks like for a healthy indoor cat or kitten. Speak with your vet to learn the specific needs fo your cat.
Kitten Vaccination Schedule
6 - 8 Weeks
- Rhinotracheitis, Calicivirus, Panleukopenia, Chlamydia
10 - 12 Weeks
- Rhinotracheitis, Calicivirus, Panleukopenia, Chlamydia
- Feline Leukemia (FeLV)
14 - 16 Weeks
- Rabies
- Booster: Rhinotracheitis, Calicivirus, Panleukopenia, Chlamydia
- Booster: Feline Leukemia (FeLV)
Adult Cat Vaccination Schedule
Annually
- Rabies*
- FeLV
- Bordatella
Every 3 Years
- Panleukopenia
- Calicivirus
- Feline Herpesvirus
*Rabies: Rabies is 100% fatal. There is no treatment 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 Your Cat May Need
Your vet may recommend other vaccinations outside of this list, depending on where you live, your cat's history, risk levels for certain diseases, and other factors. Always follow your vet's recommendation for the best care for your cat or kitten.Cat Vaccination Side Effects
While side effects are rare, some cats may experience a minor reaction to a vaccine. These minor symptoms, such as redness, should pass quickly. If you notice any of the following symptoms, it can be a sign of a more serious reaction an you should contact your vet as soon as possible:
- High fever
- Vomiting or diarrhea
- Immobility or limping
- Lethargy
- Swelling near the area of injection
- Loss of appetite
The Importance of Cat and Kitten Vaccination Schedules
As a pet owner, your four-legged family member depends on you to provide care that will help them live long, healthy lives. Vaccinations are a preventive approach to avoid serious, and sometimes fatal, diseases. Prevention is always better than having to treat a disease once your pet has developed it.
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.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. Please make an appointment with your vet for an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition.