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Cat Vaccination Schedule: A Complete Overview

From kitten shots to adult boosters, here is a general overview of what a cat vaccination schedule typically involves.

The FVRCP Core Vaccine

The core combination vaccine, commonly abbreviated FVRCP, protects against feline panleukopenia, feline viral rhinotracheitis (herpesvirus), and calicivirus, and forms the foundation of a cat's vaccination schedule.

Rabies Vaccination

Cats can also contract rabies, so this shot is often given alongside the core vaccine. Whether it's legally required or simply recommended varies by region, so check with your vet.

Kitten Schedule (Starting Around 6-8 Weeks)

A common approach starts the first dose around 6 to 8 weeks old, followed by two to three more doses every 2 to 4 weeks. The exact schedule can vary based on the clinic and the individual kitten's health.

Adult Booster Shots

After the initial kitten series, an annual booster is typically recommended to maintain immunity, though your vet may adjust the interval afterward based on your cat's situation.

Indoor vs. Outdoor Cats

Cats that go outside often or interact with other cats face a somewhat higher infection risk, and may be advised to add a feline leukemia virus (FeLV) vaccine on top of the core series.

What to Watch for Afterward

Mild swelling at the injection site or a day or two of low energy is fairly common, but severe vomiting, breathing difficulty, or facial swelling calls for an immediate call to the vet.

Always Confirm With Your Vet

Recommended vaccines and timing can vary based on your cat's health, living situation, and region, so treat this as general background information -- the actual vaccination plan should always be worked out with your cat's vet.

Indoor-Only Cats Still Need Core Vaccines

Even a cat that never goes outside can be exposed to a virus carried in on your shoes or clothing, or through contact with a new cat or a vet visit, so the core vaccine series is generally recommended regardless of lifestyle.

Vaccination Schedules Differ Between Dogs and Cats

If you have both a dog and a cat at home, keep in mind that they use entirely different core vaccines with different timing -- a schedule built for one species doesn't transfer to the other, so each pet needs its own plan from your vet.

Frequently Asked Questions

What if we fall behind on the schedule?

Falling behind doesn't necessarily mean starting the whole series over, but the safest next step is a conversation with your vet, who knows your cat's vaccination history and can advise on how to proceed.

Is it okay to bathe my cat right after a vaccination?

Right after a shot, the immune response can temporarily lower energy and resilience, so it's generally recommended to hold off on anything stressful, including a bath, for a few days.