Cats don't actually have nine lives, so you need to do what you can to protect them. The key? The right vaccinations. Shots protect your cat from diseases caused by viruses and bacteria. They can also strengthen their immune system.
Whether you have a kitten or an adult cat, your vet can help you figure out which vaccines are best and how often your kitty should get shots. It usually depends on their age, overall health, and lifestyle. The vet will also consider how long vaccines are supposed to last and how likely your cat is to come into contact with a certain disease. Also, many local and state governments have laws about vaccines such as rabies.
If your cat stays inside all the time, you might think they are protected from these kinds of diseases. But they could still catch airborne germs that might come in through a window or door. And even the most docile kitties can sometimes slip outside. If your cat does get outside, you want to make sure they are protected. Indoor cats may also pick up bacteria and viruses when they stay at a kennel. This can also happen if you bring a new cat home or if an infected animal from outside gets into the house.
When to Start Vaccinating Your Cat
Kittens should start getting vaccinations when they are 6 to 8 weeks old and continue until they are about 16 weeks old. Then they would need a booster one year later. The shots come in a series every three to four weeks. Adult cats need shots less often, usually every year or every three years, depending on how long a vaccine is designed to last.
Keep in mind that vaccines don't offer total immunity from diseases. To help your pet stay healthy, limit their contact with infected animals and avoid environments where diseases may be more common.
Essential Vaccines Every Cat Needs
Some vaccines are recommended for all cats. They're often called "core vaccines" and protect against:
- Rabies
- Panleukopenia (also known as feline distemper) (FPV)
- Feline calicivirus (FCV)
- Feline herpesvirus (FHV-1)
- Feline viral rhinotracheitis (FVR)
The feline viral rhinotracheitis, calicivirus, and panleukopenia vaccinations often come in a combination shot (FVRCP), which is sometimes called the "distemper shot."
Indoor vs. Outdoor Cat Vaccinations
Cats that go outside are at risk of catching diseases that aren't likely to affect indoor cats. Your cat may need extra shots depending on how much time they spend outside, how often they are around other cats, and the diseases that are common in your area. They include:
Feline leukemia (FELV). This serious viral infection spreads through many bodily fluids such as saliva, feces, urine, and milk. The vaccine is recommended for kittens, with a booster given 12 months later. Future vaccine recommendations will be based on the cat's lifestyle. Feline leukemia cannot be cured, so prevention is a priority.
Bordetella. This is an infection that may affect cats who go to the groomer or stay at a kennel. It can spread quickly in spaces where there are lots of animals. The vaccine won't prevent the disease, but it will keep your kitty from getting very sick. The leukemia vaccine requires a booster three weeks after the initial vaccine, regardless of whether the cat is a kitten or an adult at the time of the first vaccine. While it is no longer routinely recommended for grooming or boarding, it may be required by individual businesses.
Chlamydia. This is a bacterial infection that causes conjunctivitis ("pink eye") in cats, especially those less than 1 year old. Because this vaccine doesn't give complete protection and can cause bad reactions in some cats, veterinarians don't routinely offer it unless a cat will come into contact with other infected cats. But it is often included in combination vaccines, such as the FVRCP or 4-in-1 shot.
Cat Vaccination FAQs
What is the 4-in-1 vaccine for cats?
This is a vaccine that protects cats from:
- Chlamydia
- Calcivirus
- Panleukopenia
- Rhinotracheitis
The first three diseases are included in the FVRCP vaccine (also called the feline distemper shot). The 4-in-1 vaccine adds protection against chlamydia.
How often do cats need a rabies vaccine?
After your cat's first rabies shot, they'll need a booster either once every year after that or once every three years, depending on which type of vaccine your veterinarian uses.
What happens if I don't vaccinate my cat?
If your cat isn't up to date on their vaccines, they're at risk of getting dangerous but preventable diseases. Even if your cat stays indoors, it's always possible that they could accidentally get outside and come in contact with an animal carrying one of these conditions.
Also, your veterinarian will require your cat to have their vaccines if a procedure is needed, including dental cleanings and any emergency surgeries. Vaccines are also required by most boarding facilities.
