Cat Vaccinations: Protecting Your Feline Friend’s Health
Vaccinating your cat is one of the most important steps you can take to keep them healthy and protected from serious diseases. At Willowbrook Veterinary Hospital, we tailor vaccination plans to each cat’s lifestyle, age, and risk factors.
What vaccines does my cat need?
Vaccines are divided into two main categories:
- Core vaccines: Recommended for all cats.
- Non-core vaccines: Recommended based on your cat’s specific risk of exposure.
What are core vaccines for cats?
- Rabies: Legally required and protects against a deadly virus.
- FVRCP: A combination vaccine that protects against feline viral rhinotracheitis, calicivirus, and panleukopenia (feline distemper).
- Feline Leukemia (FeLV): A core vaccine for kittens under the age of 12 months and cats with outdoor access.
What are non-core vaccines for cats?
Feline Leukemia (FeLV): Recommended for cats that do not fall into the above parameters, but that could have unplanned exposure to other cats.
What cat vaccinations are required by law?
Rabies vaccination is required by law in most states, including Oregon.
When should I start vaccinating my kitten?
We start vaccinating kittens at 8 weeks of age and continue every 3–4 weeks until they are at least 16 weeks old at the last vaccination to ensure strong immunity.
How often does my cat need booster vaccinations?
- Rabies: Annually
- FVRCP: Boosters are typically given 1 year after the kitten series, then every 3 years.
- FeLV: Yearly if your cat is at risk.
What are the benefits of vaccinating my cat?
Vaccinations prevent serious, potentially fatal diseases, reduce the spread of infections to other pets (and in some cases, humans), and are often required for boarding, grooming, and travel.
Are there any risks or side effects associated with cat vaccines?
Most cats tolerate vaccines well. Mild side effects may include soreness at the injection site, slight fever, or lethargy. Severe reactions are rare but require immediate veterinary attention. These can include facial swelling, vomiting, diarrhea, and difficulty breathing.
How do I know if my cat is up-to-date on vaccinations?
We keep detailed medical records and provide vaccination certificates. Ask us any time if you’re unsure of your cat’s status.
Can my cat receive multiple vaccines at once?
Yes, it’s common practice to administer multiple vaccines during a visit, and it’s generally safe. We may stagger vaccines if your cat has had prior sensitivities.
What should I do if my cat has a reaction to a vaccine?
Contact us right away. Mild reactions typically resolve within a day, but symptoms like facial swelling, vomiting, diarrhea, or difficulty breathing need urgent care.
How do I prepare my cat for a vaccination appointment?
Bring your cat in a secure carrier and stay calm—cats pick up on stress. If your cat gets anxious, let us know ahead of time so we can offer tips or pre-visit calming options.
Can indoor cats skip certain vaccinations?
Even indoor cats need core vaccines like rabies and FVRCP. While their exposure risk is lower, diseases can still be brought into the home through other pets or on shoes and clothing.
How do vaccinations help prevent feline diseases?
Vaccines stimulate your cat’s immune system to recognize and fight specific infections, greatly reducing the chance of illness or minimizing the severity if exposed.
What is the difference between a vaccine and a titer test for cats?
A vaccine boosts immunity; a titer test measures antibody levels to determine if your cat has sufficient protection. Titers are sometimes used for cats with prior vaccine reactions or in certain situations, though not always a substitute for vaccination.
Are there any specific vaccines recommended for senior cats?
Senior cats typically continue core vaccines but may need fewer non-core vaccines if their exposure risk is minimal. We tailor each plan based on age and health.
Can my cat be vaccinated if it has a health condition?
In many cases, yes. We evaluate your cat’s condition to determine whether vaccines are safe or if adjustments are needed. Sometimes vaccines may be postponed if your cat is seriously ill.
What vaccines are required for boarding or traveling with my cat?
Rabies and FVRCP are usually required. Some boarding facilities also require FeLV, especially in multi-cat environments. For international travel, additional vaccinations and paperwork may be needed.
How do I handle vaccination records and documentation?
We provide documentation of all vaccinations. Keep these records handy for boarding, grooming, and travel purposes.
What is the cost of cat vaccinations and is it covered by pet insurance?
Costs vary depending on the vaccines given. Many pet insurance plans cover routine wellness care, including vaccinations, if you have a wellness add-on. Contact us for current pricing.
How can I find a reputable vet for my cat’s vaccinations?
Look for a veterinary hospital that is AAHA-accredited (like Willowbrook), has positive reviews, and offers personalized care. Always ask questions and make sure you feel comfortable with the team.
What happens if I don’t want to vaccinate my cat?
While vaccination is a personal choice (except for rabies, which is required by law), skipping vaccines puts your cat—and potentially other animals and people—at risk. We’re happy to discuss any concerns and help you make an informed decision.
Schedule Your Cat’s Vaccinations Today!
Keep your cat safe and protected. Call Willowbrook Veterinary Hospital to schedule your cat’s vaccinations or discuss a tailored vaccination plan with our team.