Vaccines for Kittens & Cats

Did you know doctors and scientists have been vaccinating cherished animals as far back as the 1800s? They started protecting farm animals like horses and cows, and eventually developed vaccines for companion pets. Vaccines are a proven way to prevent your kitten, cat, or any other type of furry friend from getting serious and potentially life-threatening diseases. Our team can help you choose the right vaccines for your pet, and make sure their vaccine schedule is always up-to-date. Call us at 204-261-7376 to find out more about how we can support you.

What vaccines do kittens need?

Newborns are more vulnerable than older cats, and need a different set of vaccines. We usually give kittens their first round of vaccines when they are about 6-weeks-old. Then, they will need to receive booster shots throughout their first year of life. Vaccines are divided into two categories: core and non-core. Core vaccines are considered as mandatory by your veterinarian, and some are even required by law (e.g. rabies vaccine). Non-core vaccines are optional, and are suggested based on your pet’s lifestyle. For example, outdoor cats may have a different set of non-core vaccines than cats who are exclusively indoors.

• Core Vaccines: Rabies, Feline calicivirus, Feline rhinotracheitis, Feline panleukopenia
• Non-Core Vaccines: Feline AIDS, Feline infectious peritonitis, Chlamydophila felis, Feline leukemia

When my kitten has grown into an adult cat, do they still need to be vaccinated?

Yes. When it comes to feline friends, vaccinations are an ongoing part of their life. That being said, they will need less frequent injections in their adult years compared to getting shots every few weeks when they are kittens. Below is a typical vaccination schedule for an adult cat:

• Once every 3 years:
  – Core vaccines such as Rabies, Feline panleukopenia, Feline herpesvirus, Calicivirus
• Once per year:
  – Non-Core vaccines like Feline leukemia virus (FeLV) and Bordetella