Introduction
Keeping our feline friends happy and healthy is a top priority for cat owners. One of the most important ways we can protect our cats is by ensuring they receive all necessary vaccinations. August is National Immunization Awareness Month, making it the perfect time to learn about the vaccines our cats need to stay protected.
Vaccines help prevent many dangerous and even fatal diseases in cats. Getting the proper shots at the right time can save cats from suffering and save owners from expensive vet bills. While the decision to vaccinate pets is a personal one, most vets agree that core vaccines are vitally important for cats. Understanding the different types of vaccines, risks and benefits can help owners make informed choices.
This article provides a comprehensive overview of all the key information owners need to know about cat vaccination schedules and protocols. We’ll cover the core vaccines all cats should receive, lifestyle vaccines based on risk factors, kitten vaccination schedules, annual booster recommendations and more. By the end, readers will understand the importance of vaccinating cats and have the details to discuss their pet’s vaccination plan with their vet.
Core Vaccines
There are four core vaccines that all cats should receive (Aaha.org Core Vaccines for Cats):
- Feline panleukopenia virus (FPV) – Also known as feline distemper, FPV is a highly contagious and life-threatening disease. Kittens are routinely vaccinated for FPV starting as early as 6 weeks of age, with boosters every 3-4 weeks until 16 weeks of age. Adult cats need FPV boosters regularly.
- Feline viral rhinotracheitis (FVR) – Caused by feline herpesvirus 1, FVR is an upper respiratory infection of cats. Kittens receive an initial FVR vaccine starting at 6-8 weeks old, with boosters until 16 weeks. Yearly FVR vaccine boosters are recommended for adult cats.
- Feline calicivirus (FCV) – Another upper respiratory illness, FCV causes oral ulcers and flu-like symptoms. Kittens are vaccinated on the same FVR schedule, with annual boosters for adult cats.
- Rabies – Rabies vaccines are core for all cats in the US. Kittens receive an initial rabies vaccine at 12-16 weeks, with legally mandated boosters every 1-3 years depending on location.
These core vaccines protect cats from the most common and serious feline illnesses. All cats, regardless of lifestyle, should receive core vaccines on the schedule recommended by a veterinarian (Allpetsvethospital.com).
Lifestyle Vaccines
Lifestyle vaccines are those that are given based on the risk of exposure due to the pet’s lifestyle, as opposed to core vaccines which are recommended for all cats and dogs. For cats, the two most common lifestyle vaccines are rabies and feline leukemia.
The rabies vaccine is required by law in most parts of the United States and Canada. Indoor cats have a very low risk of exposure to rabies, but the law still requires them to be vaccinated. Rabies is almost always fatal once clinical signs appear, so vaccination is crucial. The first rabies vaccine is usually given around 12-16 weeks of age, with a booster 1 year later, and then every 1-3 years depending on local laws (https://www.wcrah.com/site/blog-flat-rock-vet/2020/07/13/vaccinating-your-pet-core-vaccines-vs-lifestyle-vaccines).
Feline leukemia (FeLV) is only recommended for cats who go outdoors or live with other cats who go outdoors. It is spread through saliva, so outdoor cats or cats in multi-cat households are at higher risk. Kittens should receive an initial FeLV vaccine between 8-12 weeks, with a booster 3-4 weeks later, then annually. For indoor solo cats, the vaccine is generally not needed (https://www.pmcofames.com/vaccinations/what-are-lifestyle-vaccines-and-does-my-pet-need-them).
Initial Kitten Vaccines
Kittens should receive their first round of vaccines starting at 6-8 weeks of age. The initial kitten vaccine series consists of three vaccine doses given 3-4 weeks apart until the kitten is 16 weeks old.
The initial kitten vaccine series includes the following core vaccines:
- Feline panleukopenia virus (FPV)
- Feline viral rhinotracheitis (FVR)
- Feline calicivirus (FCV)
- Rabies
These vaccines help protect kittens from serious and potentially fatal illnesses they are especially vulnerable to when young. According to the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA), the initial kitten vaccine series should be completed by 16 weeks of age due to declining maternal antibody levels after this time 1.
In addition to the core vaccines, some veterinarians may recommend certain non-core or lifestyle vaccines as well, such as feline leukemia virus (FeLV) if the kitten goes outdoors. Kittens receiving their first FeLV vaccine should get a booster 2-4 weeks later 2.
It’s important to follow the complete initial kitten vaccination schedule to protect against serious diseases. Kittens rely on maternal antibodies from nursing for the first few weeks of life, but these decline over time and kittens need their own active immunity from vaccines.
Annual Vaccines
There are certain core vaccines that are recommended every year for adult cats according to the American Association of Feline Practitioners (AAFP). These include:
- Rabies – All cats should get an annual rabies vaccine as required by law. Rabies is fatal to both animals and humans, so this vaccine is critical (https://www.thesprucepets.com/adult-cat-vaccination-schedule-4846632).
- FVRCP – This vaccine protects against three common and highly contagious feline viruses: rhinotracheitis, calicivirus and panleukopenia. It is considered a core vaccine for all cats (https://www.eastdallasvetclinic.com/services/cats/vaccinations).
- FeLV – The feline leukemia virus vaccine is recommended yearly for any cat with outdoor access and multi-cat households. It prevents a common fatal cancer in cats (https://www.picoriveravet.com/site/blog/2022/05/15/cat-kitten-vaccines-schedule).
Some vets may also recommend a yearly Bordetella vaccine for cats at high risk of exposure to the bacteria. Annual vaccines are important to maintain your cat’s immunity against dangerous and contagious diseases.
Vaccine Types
There are two main types of vaccines for cats – killed vaccines and modified live virus vaccines. Killed vaccines contain inactivated or “dead” forms of the virus or bacteria. This stimulates an immune response in the cat without exposing them to the actual live pathogen. Some examples of killed vaccines include rabies, feline leukemia virus (FeLV), and feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV).
Modified live virus (MLV) vaccines contain weakened forms of the live virus. When introduced to the cat’s immune system, it activates immunity against the virus without making the cat sick. Some MLV vaccines for cats include feline distemper, feline panleukopenia virus, feline rhinotracheitis virus, and calicivirus. MLV vaccines provide stronger immunity but have some risks compared to killed vaccines. Veterinarians will determine the right types of vaccines for each cat based on lifestyle, age, and health status.
According to SplootVets.com, killed vaccines are extremely safe but may require more frequent boosters. MLV vaccines provide longer immunity with fewer doses, but have potential risks for immunocompromised cats (source). Veterinarians weigh these factors when designing an optimal vaccination schedule for each feline patient.
Vaccine Risks
While rare, some cats can have an adverse reaction to vaccines. The most common side effects are mild and short-lived, including soreness or swelling at the injection site, fever, decreased appetite, and lethargy. More severe reactions like facial swelling or hives are less common but can occur. The most concerning potential risk is an anaphylactic reaction, but this is extremely rare. If any concerning signs occur after vaccination like facial swelling, difficulty breathing, or collapse, you should contact your veterinarian immediately (Source).
To minimize risks, cats should be in good health when vaccinated. Kittens especially should only be vaccinated when free of illness. It’s also important to administer vaccines properly, at the right dosage and route. Using single vaccines instead of combination shots reduces risk as well. It’s a good idea to wait with your cat for 15-20 minutes after vaccines to monitor for any immediate allergic reaction.
Vaccine Exemptions
There are some cases where a veterinarian may recommend not vaccinating a cat. According to KeepingItPawsome, reasons a cat may be exempt from receiving vaccines include:
- Kittens under 4 weeks old should not be vaccinated as maternal antibodies can interfere with the vaccine.
- Sick kittens or cats should not be vaccinated until they have fully recovered.
- Cats with compromised or weakened immune systems may not be able to build immunity from the vaccine.
- Cats who have had a previous severe reaction to a vaccine may be exempt from further vaccines.
- Some purebred cats, like Abyssinians and Siamese, may be at higher genetic risk for adverse reactions.
- Geriatric cats over 10 years old may not need further boosters, depending on health status.
Pet owners should discuss any exemptions with their veterinarian, who can provide guidance on whether foregoing vaccines is recommended for an individual cat.
Cost
The cost of cat vaccines can vary depending on your location, veterinarian, and the specific vaccines administered. However, most core vaccines range from $15 to $30 per vaccine. According to MarketWatch, the average cost of common cat vaccines are:
- Rabies: $15-$28
- FVRCP (feline distemper): $17-$30
- FeLV (feline leukemia): $25-$45
Non-core vaccines like feline influenza or chlamydia generally range from $20 to $35. Kittens may receive an initial series of core vaccines costing $75 to $150. After the initial kitten vaccines, annual booster vaccines for an adult cat often cost $50 to $75 total.
Compared to the cost of treating illnesses prevented by vaccines, routine vaccination is very affordable. Discuss budget-friendly vaccine options with your veterinarian to help keep your cat protected.
Conclusion
Following the guidance of your veterinarian with regards to the proper vaccinations for your cat is strongly recommended. While some vaccines are more critical than others, your vet understands your cat’s lifestyle, environment, and medical history to determine the appropriate vaccines for your particular cat’s needs. By following your vet’s advice on the initial kitten vaccines as well as the recommended annual boosters, you will ensure your cat is protected against dangerous and sometimes deadly diseases for its entire life. Vaccines are key in preventing diseases and allowing your cat to live an active and healthy life for many years. Ultimately, having a strong preventative health plan with regular vet visits and vaccinations as needed will lead to a longer, healthier and happier life for your beloved cat.