What vaccinations are there for cats and when? - briefly
Cats should receive core vaccinations, such as those for feline panleukopenia, calicivirus, and herpesvirus, starting at 6-8 weeks of age, followed by boosters every 3-4 weeks until 16 weeks old, and then every 1-3 years depending on the vaccine type and veterinarian's recommendation.
What vaccinations are there for cats and when? - in detail
Cats require specific vaccinations to protect them from various infectious diseases, and the timing of these vaccinations is crucial for their effectiveness. Core vaccines, which are essential for all cats, include those for feline panleukopenia (FPV), feline herpesvirus-1 (FHV-1), and feline calicivirus (FCV). These diseases are highly contagious and can be severe or fatal, making vaccination critical. Kittens typically receive their first dose of these vaccines at 6-8 weeks of age, with booster shots given every 3-4 weeks until they are 16 weeks old. Adult cats with an unknown vaccination history should receive two doses, 3-4 weeks apart, followed by boosters every 1-3 years, depending on the vaccine type and veterinarian recommendations.
Another core vaccine is for rabies, which is legally required in many regions due to its zoonotic potential. The first rabies vaccine is usually administered at 12-16 weeks of age, with a booster one year later. Subsequent boosters are given every 1-3 years, depending on local regulations and the vaccine used. Non-core vaccines are recommended based on a cat’s lifestyle, environment, and risk of exposure. These include vaccines for feline leukemia virus (FeLV), which is essential for outdoor cats or those in multi-cat households. The FeLV vaccine is typically given in two doses, 3-4 weeks apart, starting at 8-12 weeks of age, with annual boosters recommended for at-risk cats.
Other non-core vaccines include those for feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV), Chlamydia felis, and Bordetella bronchiseptica. These are administered based on specific risk factors, such as exposure to other cats or living in high-density environments. Vaccination schedules should always be tailored to the individual cat’s needs and discussed with a veterinarian. Regular veterinary check-ups ensure that vaccinations are up-to-date and provide an opportunity to assess the cat’s overall health. Proper vaccination not only protects cats from preventable diseases but also contributes to public health by reducing the spread of zoonotic infections.