Why should I get my cat vaccinated?
It's essential to have your kitten vaccinated to protect them from contracting numerous serious feline-specific diseases. After your kitten has their first vaccinations, it's equally important to follow up with regular booster shots during your cat's lifetime.
Booster shots 'boost' your cat's protection against many feline diseases, as the initial vaccine's effects wear off. Booster shots for different vaccines are administered on varying schedules. Your vet will let you know when to bring your cat in for their booster shots.
Kitten Vaccination Schedule
First Visit (6 - 8 Weeks)
- Review nutrition and grooming
- Blood test for feline leukemia
- Fecal exam for parasites
- Vaccinations for calicivirus, panleukopenia and rhinotracheitis
Second Visit (12 Weeks)
- Examination and external check for parasites
- First feline leukemia vaccine
- Second vaccinations for calicivirus, panleukopenia and rhinotracheitis
Third Visit (Follow Veterinarian's Advice)
- Rabies vaccine
- Second feline leukemia vaccine
What should I expect for my cat's vaccination schedule?
Adult cats should have booster shots either annually or very three years, depending on the vaccine. Your vet can give you more specific information about when to bring your adult cat back for booster shots.
Is my kitten protected after their first round of shots?
Your kitten is not fully vaccinated until they have received all of their injections, at about 12-16 weeks of age. Once they have received all of those initial vaccinations your kitten will be protected against the diseases covered by the vaccines.
If you want to allow your kitten outdoors before they have received all of their vaccines, it is a good idea to keep them confined to low-risk areas such as your own backyard.
What about my indoor cat's vaccination schedule?
You may not think that your indoor cat needs to be vaccinated, however many states including Tennessee require that cats over the age of 6 months be vaccinated against rabies. When you have your cat vaccinated your vet will provide you with a certificate of vaccination which you should store in a safe place.
When it comes to your cat's health it's always better to err on the side of caution. Cats can be curious creatures. Our vets recommend that indoor cats receive all of the core-vaccinations to protect against diseases they may be exposed to if they manage to escape the safety of home.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.