Cat Vaccinations

The vaccines every cat should have

Feline guidelines name two core vaccines for all cats: rabies, and FVRCP, the combination protecting against feline herpesvirus (rhinotracheitis), calicivirus, and panleukopenia (feline distemper). Panleukopenia in particular is hardy, widespread, and frequently fatal in unvaccinated kittens.

Feline leukemia (FeLV) works a little differently. The AAHA/AAFP guidelines consider it a core vaccine for kittens and young cats under one year old, because young cats are the most susceptible. After that first year it becomes a lifestyle vaccine: recommended for adult cats who go outdoors, or who live with or meet cats whose FeLV status is unknown (the virus spreads through close contact like mutual grooming and shared bowls), and generally not needed for indoor adults with no exposure to other cats. The guidelines also recommend testing a cat's FeLV status before vaccinating. We'll go over your cat's age and lifestyle and recommend only what fits.

Why we use PureVax rabies for cats

Cats can react to the adjuvants (immune boosters) in some traditional vaccines. PureVax is a non-adjuvanted rabies vaccine developed specifically for cats and preferred by feline practitioners for that reason. It costs a little more ($40 versus $30) and we think it's worth it. We'd rather explain the difference than quietly use the cheaper option.

A typical kitten schedule

FVRCP usually begins at 6–8 weeks, with boosters every 3–4 weeks until 16–20 weeks of age. Feline leukemia is a two-dose series that can start at 8 weeks. Rabies is typically given once at 12–16 weeks. Everything is boosted a year later; after that, FVRCP is generally every three years for low-risk cats, rabies per the vaccine's label, and FeLV yearly for cats who remain at risk.

Indoor cats still need protection

Two reasons. First, panleukopenia and respiratory viruses travel on shoes, clothes, and hands, and indoor cats catch them. Second, rabies: bats do get into houses, and a rabies vaccine is what stands between an unlucky encounter and a very hard conversation. It's also the law here: Lake County requires rabies vaccination for all cats over 4 months old under Section 2010.02 of the Lake County General Health District's regulations, and the health district is explicit that indoor cats are not excluded.