Core Vaccines (Essential for All Cats)

1. FVRCP: The Essential Combination Vaccine

This core vaccine protects against three widespread and dangerous diseases:

• Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis (FVR): A severe upper respiratory infection caused by feline herpesvirus.
• Calicivirus: Another major cause of upper respiratory disease and painful oral ulcers.
• Panleukopenia ("Feline Distemper"): A highly contagious and often fatal gastrointestinal disease.

Standard Kitten Schedule:

2. Rabies Vaccine

A legal requirement in most areas, this vaccine protects against a fatal zoonotic disease (transmissible to humans).

Standard Schedule:

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.

Non-Core Vaccines (Based on Lifestyle Risk)

1. Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV)

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.

2. Other Non-Core Vaccines

• Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV): Generally not recommended due to limited effectiveness and interference with testing. May be considered for high-risk outdoor cats with a history of fighting.
• Chlamydia: Considered for environments like catteries or shelters with a history of infection.
• Bordetella: Often used in high-density settings (shelters, boarding facilities). An intranasal form is available.
• Feline Infectious Peritonitis (FIP): Not routinely recommended by major veterinary organizations due to unproven efficacy.

Vaccination Schedules by Lifestyle (2026 Guidelines)

Indoor-Only Cat (Lower Risk)

Indoor/Outdoor or Multi-Cat Household Cat (Higher Risk)

Adult Cat Vaccination

• Unknown History: Treat as unvaccinated. Complete an initial FVRCP series (2 doses, 3-4 weeks apart) and administer Rabies and FeLV (if indicated) vaccines.
• Previously Vaccinated: Follow your veterinarian's recommended booster schedule. Titer testing (measuring antibody levels in blood) can be discussed as an alternative to automatic boosters for some diseases.

Understanding Vaccine Side Effects & Risks

Common, Mild Reactions (Typically resolve in 24-48 hours)

• Lethargy or decreased appetite
• Mild fever or discomfort at the injection site
• Sneezing (for intranasal vaccines)

Management: Provide a quiet space, ensure access to water, and monitor. Contact your vet if symptoms persist beyond 48 hours.

Serious Reactions (Seek Immediate Veterinary Care)

Vaccine-Associated Sarcoma (VAS)

A rare but serious type of injection-site tumor.

• Risk: Estimated between 1 in 10,000 to 1 in 100,000 cats.
• Risk Reduction Strategies:
  • Use of non-adjuvanted vaccines when possible.
  • Administering vaccines in the distal limb (leg) rather than the scruff.
  • Tailoring vaccines to the cat's actual risk profile.
• Warning Sign: Any lump at the injection site that persists for more than 3 months, is larger than 2 cm, or is growing. Requires prompt veterinary evaluation.

Cost of Cat Vaccinations (2026 Estimates)

Initial Kitten Series

Annual/Booster Costs for Adults

Making Informed Vaccination Decisions

Collaborate with your veterinarian by discussing these key questions:

1. What is my cat's lifestyle (indoor only, outdoor access)?
2. What is the local prevalence of certain diseases?
3. What is my cat's age and overall health status?
4. Has my cat had any previous vaccine reactions?
5. Are there plans for boarding, grooming, or travel?

Titer Testing: An Alternative to Consider

Titer tests measure antibody levels in the blood to assess existing immunity.

• Pros: Can prevent unnecessary vaccinations; offers a personalized approach.
• Cons: More expensive upfront; not accepted in place of legally mandated Rabies vaccination; interpretation can be complex.

Legal Requirements & Record Keeping

• Rabies vaccination is legally required for cats in most municipalities.
• Proof is often needed for licensing, travel, boarding, and grooming services.
• Maintain accurate records of all vaccinations, including certificates, tag numbers, dates, and your veterinarian's details.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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.