Why does my indoor cat need rabies vaccines if they never go out?

Mars definitely needs this Rabies shot. The second Rabies shot actually completes the Rabies vaccine series. He would be considered unvaccinated without it. What I recommend is an unadjuvented vaccine for cats. Some clinics have a 3 year one and others only a 1 year due to the expense of the 3 year. Even being strictly indoor Rabies is very important. Bats can get into a house and bite without leaving a large wound. So a 1 year nonadjuvented Rabies is safer than going unvaccinated! Thanks for reaching out to Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach!

Hi there. I generally still recommend vaccinating indoor-only cats for rabies, since there's always the possibility that a bat or other animal could get into the house. Since rabies is a fatal disease that can also be spread to humans, it's best not to take any chances. Giving the rabies vaccine is safe, and will not reduce your kitten's lifespan.

Yes, it is recommended and in most places it is actually required by law. You will have to check your local laws to know if it is required in your area. Some clinics have a 3 year rabies vaccine that only needs to be updated every 3 years. You an ask your vet about that. I am not sure if it is available in your country. Even though the dog is indoors most of the time, bats and other animals can get into your yard and/or in your house. In the United States most animals get infected when bats get into the house. The rabies vaccination is also important if your dog was to bite someone that comes into your house. It is for everyone's protection. Easy thing to do and inexpensive.

I would recommend a feline upper respiratory vaccine (FVRCP) and a rabies vaccine. If she has any outdoor exposure, I would also consider the Feline Leukemia vaccine (FeLV). You may be able to purchase the FVRCP and FeLV from a feed store but you will need a licensed veterinarian to give the Rabies.

Rabies can only be contracted by being bit by animal that is shedding the virus. The biggest concern for indoor only cats is if a bat has gotten into the house because we do not always know if that bat has bitten a cat. If Bonnie is not vaccinated for Rabies, then she may need to be quarantined for a period of time (usually 10 days) to make sure that she does not develop any signs of Rabies. That quarantine may be able to be in your house if you don't have any other animals or may need to be at a vet clinic or shelter. I would recommend contacting your veterinarian to discuss the specific legal requirements in your area. Depending on your state, she may not be able to be vaccinated for Rabies until after her quarantine period. Good luck! I hope that was helpful and answers your questions. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

Yes, I would recommend giving this vaccine on a regular basis, even though Gracie does not go outside. These are highly contagious and serious viruses that can be transmitted easily - even if Gracie is laying by an open window and a stray cat is outside. Depending upon the vaccine manufacturer's labeling claims, this vaccine may be given every 1 or 3 years. Since she does not go outside, feline leukemia vaccines (FeLV) are likely unnecessary unless she has a housemate cat that does go outside, or you plan to introduce a feline leukemia positive cat to your household.

Thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! It is great that you decided to get your cat fixed! To be considered fully vaccinated, she will need at least a rabies vaccine, FRCP vaccine, and I recommend an FeLV vaccine for outdoor cats. These are all potentially deadly or extremely common viruses that cats can get from each other or wildlife such as raccoons. Although your cat is indoor only, there is a risk that she may run away and be exposed. I recommend having her microchipped and wear a collar in case this happens so that the two of you can be reunited. She should also be on monthly flea control, even f she is only indoors to prevent flea infestations.