Vaccinations in cats are essential to protect them from fatal and life-threatening diseases. In addition, it saves you a lot of dollars spent on treating such a deadly disease. So, we will provide all the information you need about the importance of cat vaccinations, vaccine schedules for cats, different vaccine types and many other things.
Why Vaccinations Are Important for Cats?
Cats vaccinations play an important role in protecting them from serious and potentially fatal diseases. Vaccine Schedule for cats are crucial in safeguarding your cat’s overall health and wellbeing. Here is why:
- Vaccines protect cats against life-threatening diseases like rabies, feline panleukopenia, feline calicivirus & herpesvirus.
- Regular vaccinations in cats prevent the spread of disease, especially to other cats in multi-household or shelter situations.
- Vaccinations are important for outdoor as well as indoor cats. Because indoor cats are not completely safe.
- In many places, rabies vaccination is mandatory. Additionally, most travel regulations require proof of vaccination for your cat to accompany you.
- If your cat is vaccinated against different diseases, it saves you a lot of money treating such diseases in cats.
- Vaccinations boost a cat’s immune system to fight diseases in the future when encountered.
If you want to learn about how vaccinations work you can check this my previous blog post about dog vaccinations.
Core vs Non-Core Vaccines in Cats
Vaccinations are divided into two main categories: core and non-core vaccines.
These vaccines protect against serious disease that can be fatal to cats as well as pose a risk to human health.
Key Core Vaccines
1-Rabies
It’s a fatal virus that affects the brain and can be transmitted to humans. Moreover, its vaccination is required legally in many areas.
2-Feline Panleukopenia (FPV)
Also called feline distemper, it’s a highly contagious and deadly virus causing vomiting, diarrhoea, and dehydration.
3-Feline Herpesvirus (FHV-1)
It’s a highly contagious respiratory infection which causes symptoms of sneezing, nasal discharge, eye infections, ulcers, fever, and lethargy.
In addition, vaccination against FHV-1 is important because once infected, cats can become lifelong carriers and may experience flare-ups under stress.
4-Feline Calicivirus (FCV)
It’s another common respiratory virus that affects the mouth and joints. Some strains of FCV cause severe disease which leads to long-term health problems.
Non-Core Vaccinations
Non-core vaccines are optional and recommended vaccines based on a cat’s lifestyle, risk factors and environment.
1-Feline Leukaemia Virus (FeLV)
It’s a viral infection that weakens your immune system and increases the risk of cancer. Moreover, it causes symptoms of weight loss, anaemia and recurrent infection.
FeLV vaccination is initially recommended for all kittens, but for adult cats, it’s continued based on risk factors.
2-Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV)
It’s a similar virus to human HIV, which weakens the immune system and exposes cats to secondary infections.
Chronic infections, weight loss, fever and swollen lymph nodes are common symptoms associated with FIV.
Its vaccination is recommended in outdoor cats, especially those which often fight. Because this virus is spread through bite wounds.
3-Bordetella bronchiseptica
A bacterial infection which causes upper respiratory disease in cats, similar to kennel cough in dogs. Its symptoms include sneezing, coughing, nasal discharge, fever, and difficulty breathing.
Its vaccination is recommended in cats at shelters, boarding facilities or catteries.
4-Chlamydophila felis
Another bacterial infection in cats that affects cats as well as the respiratory system. Furthermore, affected cats show symptoms of conjunctivitis, watery eyes, nasal discharge and sneezing.
Cats in multi-cat households with a history of conjunctivitis outbreaks need their vaccinations.
Recommended Vaccine Schedule for Cats
A proper and comprehensive vaccination schedule is essential to protect cats from life-threatening diseases. Here is a complete guide for vaccination schedules in kittens, adults and senior cats.
Kittens (6–16 Weeks Old)
Kittens need multiple vaccinations to build strong immunity. Their schedule includes:
- FVRCP vaccine given at 6-8 weeks and repeated every 3-4 weeks until age of 16 weeks.
- Feline Leukaemia (FeLV) vaccine recommended at 8–12 weeks and booster given every 3-4 weeks later for risk-prone cats.
- Rabies vaccine administered at 12–16 weeks and booster doses annually.
Adult Cats (1 Year and Older)
After completing their kitten vaccinations, cats require periodic boosters to maintain immunity:
- The FVRCP vaccine is given again at 1 year old, then every 1–3 years depending on the vaccine type.
- Rabies boosters must be given after the first year and then every 1-3 years depending upon legal requirements and vaccine type.
- The FeLV vaccine is continued annually for outdoor cats or those exposed to other felines.
- Other non-core vaccines are given if the cat is at risk, usually once a year.
Senior Cats (7 Years and Older)
Older cats may need fewer vaccines, but core protection remains important.
- The FVRCP vaccine is generally administered every 3 years.
- Rabies vaccines continue based on legal requirements, usually every 1–3 years.
- The FeLV vaccine is only necessary for high-risk senior cats and is given annually.
Cost for a Cat Vaccination?
The cost of a vaccine schedule for cats depends upon various factors like location, veterinary clinic type, and vaccine type.
On average, a kitten’s first-year vaccine costs $100 to $300, and annual boosters for adult cats range between $50 and $150.
But investing in a cat vaccination schedule protects it from life-threatening diseases and saves the cost of expensive treatment in the long run.
Special Considerations
Several factors should be taken into account to ensure the safety and effectiveness of a cat’s vaccination. Here are key considerations:
Indoor cats only need core vaccinations like FVRCP and rabies, but outdoor cats require non-core vaccinations because of the higher risk of exposure.
Kittens require a series of vaccinations, while senior cats need fewer vaccines.
In addition, sick or immunocompromised cats should not be vaccinated until they recover.
Vaccines are generally not given to pregnant cats because it can affect kittens. So, consult your veterinarian before vaccinating a pregnant cat.
Common Side Effects of Cat Vaccinations
Vaccines are generally considered safe but can cause side effects. Although most reactions are mild and temporary.
- Lethargy and Mild Fever
- Soreness at the Injection Site
- Decreased Appetite
- Vomiting or Diarrhoea
- Itching or Hives
- Swelling of the Face or Limbs
- Anaphylaxis (Severe Allergic Reaction)
4-in-1 vaccine for cats
The 4-in-1 vaccine for cats is core, which is commonly called the FVRCP vaccine, which protects against four major feline diseases. This vaccine protects your cat against feline viral rhinotracheitis (FVR), calicivirus, panleukopenia and chlamydia.
Typically, the cost of the 4-in-1 vaccine ranges from $20 to $50 per dose.
5-in-1 vaccine for cats
The 5-in-1 vaccine for cats is an extended version of the 4-in-1 vaccine for cats. It protects against one additional disease, feline leukaemia virus, including the other four major diseases. Moreover, it costs $30 to $60 per dose.
Conclusion
So, that was all about vaccination in cats and how to protect your cat. As cat owner you never neglect this aspect of your feline health because it can be very costly even fatal for your cat. Therefore, always follow vet’s recommended vaccine schedule for cats.
If you are thinking of adding new kitten to your family or your first feline friend then this guide will be very helpful to you.