There are various preventive care steps that you can take in order to help protect your cat or kitten from a variety of preventable diseases and conditions, having them vaccinated is one such way. Here, our Benton vets share their typical recommended cat vaccination schedule in order to provide the best lifelong protection for your feline friend.
What Cat Vaccinations Are Needed?
Not all cats will follow the same vaccination schedule because of various reasons such as pre-existing health conditions and indoor/outdoor living situations. We've provided a typical cat vaccination schedule below, based on an average indoor cat. Your Benton vet can provide specific information and the cat vaccination schedule they recommend.
Kitten Vaccination Schedule
6 - 10 Weeks
- FVRCP for Rhinotracheitis, Calicivirus, Panleukopenia (also known as feline distemper)
- Rabies vaccine*
- FeLV Feline leukemia
- FIV Booster for Feline immunodeficiency virus
- Feline herpesvirus
- Bordatella
- Chlamydia
11 - 14 Weeks
- FVRCP for Rhinotracheitis, Calicivirus, Panleukopenia (also known as feline distemper)
- FeLV Feline leukemia
- FIV Booster for Feline immunodeficiency virus
15+ Weeks
- FVRCP final booster for Rhinotracheitis, Calicivirus, Panleukopenia (also known as feline distemper)
- FeLV Feline leukemia
- FIV Booster for Feline immunodeficiency virus
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.The Potential Side Effects of Cat Vaccinations
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
Why Cat Vaccinations Are So Important
Your cat looks to you to provide lifelong care and protection. Cat 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.
Your vet can help determine what vaccinations schedule will work best for your cat and their lifestyle.