A comprehensive 2026 guide to core and non-core cat vaccines, schedules by lifestyle, costs, side effects, and how to make informed decisions with your vet.
Vaccinations are a cornerstone of preventive healthcare for cats, offering vital protection against serious, often fatal, diseases. This guide provides cat owners with the essential knowledge to understand vaccine types, schedules, potential side effects, and how to collaborate with a veterinarian to create a personalized immunization plan.
Vaccines safely prepare your cat's immune system to fight future infections. They work by:
| Type | Description | Common Examples |
|---|
| Modified Live (MLV) | Contains a weakened form of the virus. Often provides strong, rapid immunity. | Some FVRCP formulations |
| Killed (Inactivated) | Contains a virus that has been destroyed. Generally considered very safe. | Some Rabies vaccines |
| Recombinant | Uses a piece of the pathogen's genetic material. Represents newer vaccine technology. | Some Rabies vaccines |
This core vaccine protects against three widespread and dangerous diseases:
Standard Kitten Schedule:
| Age | Vaccination |
|---|---|
| 6-8 weeks | First FVRCP dose |
| 10-12 weeks | Second FVRCP dose |
| 14-16 weeks | Third FVRCP dose |
| 1 year | Booster |
| Thereafter | Booster every 3 years (or as advised by your vet) |
A legal requirement in most areas, this vaccine protects against a fatal zoonotic disease (transmissible to humans).
Standard Schedule:
| Age | Vaccination |
|---|---|
| 12-16 weeks | First Rabies vaccine |
| 1 year | Booster |
| Thereafter | Booster every 1 or 3 years (depends on vaccine type and local law) |
Note: The 1-year and 3-year rabies vaccines are often the same formulation; the labeling difference is based on duration-of-immunity studies and legal statutes.
Recommended for: Kittens, outdoor cats, cats in multi-cat households, or those exposed to cats of unknown status.
Key Requirement: Cats must test negative for FeLV before vaccination, as the vaccine is not effective in already-infected cats.
Schedule: Typically a two-dose series starting at 8 weeks, with a second dose 3-4 weeks later, followed by annual boosters for cats with ongoing risk.
| Age | Recommended Vaccines |
|---|---|
| 6-8 weeks | FVRCP #1 |
| 10-12 weeks | FVRCP #2 |
| 14-16 weeks | FVRCP #3, Rabies |
| 1 year | FVRCP & Rabies Boosters |
| Every 3 years | FVRCP & Rabies Boosters |
| Age | Recommended Vaccines |
|---|---|
| 6-8 weeks | FVRCP #1 |
| 10-12 weeks | FVRCP #2, FeLV #1 (if indicated) |
| 14-16 weeks | FVRCP #3, FeLV #2, Rabies |
| 1 year | All applicable boosters |
| Annually | FeLV booster (if risk continues) |
| Every 3 years | FVRCP & Rabies Boosters |
Management: Provide a quiet space, ensure access to water, and monitor. Contact your vet if symptoms persist beyond 48 hours.
| Reaction | Typical Onset |
|---|---|
| Facial swelling or hives | Within hours |
| Difficulty breathing | Immediate |
| Persistent vomiting/diarrhea | Within hours |
| Collapse or severe lethargy | Immediate |
A rare but serious type of injection-site tumor.
| Service | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Wellness Exams + FVRCP Series (3 doses) | $150 - $350 |
| Rabies Vaccine | $25 - $50 |
| FeLV Series (2 doses, if needed) | $60 - $120 |
| Total (Kitten) | $235 - $520 |
| Service | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Annual Wellness Exam | $60 - $160 |
| FVRCP Booster (every 3 years) | $30 - $60 |
| Rabies Booster (1 or 3 year) | $25 - $50 |
| FeLV Annual Booster (if needed) | $30 - $60 |
| Average Annual Cost | $100 - $270 |
Collaborate with your veterinarian by discussing these key questions:
Titer tests measure antibody levels in the blood to assess existing immunity.
Q: Does my indoor-only cat really need vaccines? A: Yes. Core vaccines protect against diseases that can be inadvertently brought into the home (e.g., on clothing). Rabies vaccination is also a legal requirement in most areas.
Q: Can vaccines make my cat sick? A: Mild, short-lived reactions are possible. Serious adverse reactions are rare. The protective benefits of vaccination overwhelmingly outweigh the minimal risks for the vast majority of cats.
Q: How long do cat vaccines last? A: Duration varies. FVRCP provides protection for a minimum of 3 years. Rabies vaccines are labeled for 1 or 3 years. FeLV requires annual boosters for at-risk cats.
Q: Can I vaccinate my cat at home? A: Not recommended. Proper storage, handling, administration, and legal documentation (especially for rabies) are critical and must be performed by a licensed veterinarian.
Q: What if my cat had a bad reaction to a vaccine? A: Inform your veterinarian. Future vaccination plans may involve pre-medication, using a different vaccine type, or a careful risk-benefit analysis for each disease.
Last Updated: 2026 | Always work with your veterinarian to create a vaccination plan tailored to your cat's individual health, lifestyle, and local disease risks.
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