What kind of vaccinations does a cat need?

Vaccinations are important for keeping your cat healthy and protected from various contagious diseases. Here’s a rundown of the essential vaccines for cats:

1. Core Vaccines (Essential for All Cats)
Feline Distemper (Panleukopenia)

• Protects against: A highly contagious and often fatal viral infection that attacks the cat’s immune system, digestive system, and bone marrow.
• Given to: All cats, typically starting at 8-9 weeks of age, with booster shots every 3 years.

Feline Herpesvirus (Rhinotracheitis)

• Protects against: A virus that causes respiratory infections, such as sneezing, nasal discharge, and conjunctivitis (eye inflammation).
• Given to: All cats, usually as part of the combined FVRCP vaccine (which includes other respiratory diseases).

Feline Calicivirus

• Protects against: A viral infection that affects the respiratory system, leading to symptoms like mouth sores, fever, and nasal congestion.
• Given to: All cats, also usually included in the FVRCP vaccine.

Rabies

• Protects against: A deadly viral disease that affects the nervous system and is transmitted through bites or saliva. Rabies is fatal for both cats and humans.
• Given to: All cats, with the first dose typically administered at around 12-16 weeks old. Rabies vaccines often require boosters every 1-3 years, depending on local laws and vaccine type.

2. Non-Core (Optional) Vaccines

These are recommended depending on the cat’s lifestyle, risk of exposure, and geographical location.

Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV)

• Protects against: A viral infection that can cause immunosuppression, anemia, and cancer. It is spread through close contact with infected cats (e.g., sharing food, grooming, or fighting).
• Given to: Cats who go outside or are exposed to other cats at high risk. Given as an initial vaccine at around 8-9 weeks, with a booster at 12 weeks, then annually.

Chlamydia felis

• Protects against: An infection that causes conjunctivitis (eye inflammation) and respiratory issues in cats.
• Given to: Cats that are at risk of exposure, typically those in multi-cat households or shelters.

Bordetella bronchiseptica

• Protects against: A bacterial infection that causes kennel cough (respiratory disease), common in environments with multiple animals (e.g., boarding facilities).
• Given to: Cats at risk, particularly those in boarding situations, shelters, or with frequent travel.

Vaccination Schedule

• Kittens:
  • Initial vaccines usually start at 8-9 weeks, with boosters every 3-4 weeks until they are 16 weeks old.
  • Rabies is given at 12-16 weeks.
• Adult Cats:
  • If your cat is already vaccinated, they will typically receive booster shots every 1-3 years, depending on the vaccine and your vet’s recommendations.

Things to Remember

• Outdoor Cats are at a higher risk and may need more vaccines, especially for diseases like FeLV or Bordetella.
• Indoor Cats may need fewer non-core vaccines, but core vaccines like rabies and FVRCP are still crucial.
• Check with your vet to tailor a vaccination plan based on your cat’s lifestyle and local regulations.