At what age should a kitten be vaccinated and with what? - briefly
Kittens should begin vaccinations at around 6 to 8 weeks of age, starting with core vaccines such as feline panleukopenia, calicivirus, and herpesvirus, followed by rabies and other non-core vaccines as recommended by a veterinarian.
At what age should a kitten be vaccinated and with what? - in detail
Kittens should begin their vaccination schedule at around 6 to 8 weeks of age, as this is when the natural immunity they receive from their mother’s milk starts to wane. The first vaccination typically includes protection against feline panleukopenia (also known as feline distemper), feline herpesvirus, and feline calicivirus. These are often administered in a combined vaccine referred to as the FVRCP vaccine. Feline panleukopenia is a highly contagious and potentially fatal disease that affects the gastrointestinal tract, while feline herpesvirus and calicivirus are common causes of respiratory infections in cats. Around 3 to 4 weeks after the initial vaccination, usually at 10 to 12 weeks of age, a booster shot is necessary to ensure the kitten develops a strong immune response. A third booster may be recommended at 14 to 16 weeks of age, depending on the kitten’s health and the veterinarian’s advice. Additionally, kittens should be vaccinated against rabies, which is a legal requirement in many regions. The rabies vaccine is typically administered at around 12 to 16 weeks of age, with a booster given one year later and then every one to three years, depending on local regulations and the type of vaccine used. For kittens with outdoor exposure or those in multi-cat households, vaccination against feline leukemia virus (FeLV) is often recommended. The first FeLV vaccine is usually given at 8 to 12 weeks of age, with a booster administered 3 to 4 weeks later. It’s essential to consult a veterinarian to tailor the vaccination schedule to the kitten’s specific needs, as factors such as health status, lifestyle, and local disease prevalence can influence the timing and type of vaccines required. Regular vaccinations are critical to protecting kittens from life-threatening diseases and ensuring their long-term health.