Vaccinations play a critical role in keeping cats healthy throughout their lifetime. Our Dallas vets recommend following this vaccination schedule to protect your kitten from a number of potentially deadly feline diseases.
What shots do cats and kittens need?
There may be variations in schedules due to factors such as pre-existing health conditions and indoor/outdoor living situations. We've provided an approximate schedule below, based on an average indoor cat. Your vet can provide specific information and the schedule they recommend for your unique pet.
Kitten Vaccination Schedule
6 - 8 Weeks
Rhinotracheitis
Calicivirus
Panleukopenia (also known as feline distemper)
Feline Chlamydia
10 - 12 Weeks
First Booster: Rhinotracheitis, Calicivirus, Panleukopenia
FeLV Feline leukemia
14 - 16 Weeks
FVRCP final booster for Rhinotracheitis, Calicivirus, Panleukopenia, Chlamydia
FeLV Feline leukemia 2
Adult Cat Vaccination Schedule
Annually
Rabies vaccine*
FeLV Feline leukemia
Bordatella
Every 3 Years
Panleukopenia (feline distemper)
Calicivirus
Feline herpesvirus
*Rabies: Rabies is 100% fatal. There is no treatment is 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 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.
Possible Side Effects
Most cats will not have side effects from their vaccinations or may experience a brief or minor reaction to the medication. However, if you notice any of the following side effects, contact your vet immediately to determine if other treatment may be necessary.
High fever
Vomiting or diarrhea
Immobility or limping
Lethargy
Swelling near the area of injection
Loss of appetite
The Importance of Vaccinations
As a pet-owner, your kitten or cat 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.
If your cat or kitten is overdue for their vaccinations, contact our Dallas vets at North Tollway Pet Hospital today to get started.
