Cat & Kitten Vaccines

Cat parents understand the importance of getting their pets vaccinated, but knowing exactly which vaccinations are required at what age—and how they help keep our cats safe and healthy—can be difficult to summarize. Use this guide to stay up to date on your cat’s vaccinations and learn why they’re so important.

Why cats and kittens need vaccinations

Unless you’re a trained veterinarian, understanding how cats get sick can be tricky. Diseases are caused by pathogens or, as they are more commonly called, germs. These can include anything from a virus or bacteria to another microorganism that makes its way into your pet’s body and can cause them to become ill.

How do pet vaccines work?

Vaccinations work by introducing a modified—and therefore less potent or killed—form of a specific pathogen to stimulate your pet's immune system and cause it to develop antibodies specific to that pathogen. After the pet is vaccinated, the body will recognize that pathogen during future exposures and the immune system will be better prepared to fight that disease than they would be if they hadn't been vaccinated.

What Vaccines does my cat need?

The American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) splits vaccines into two categories: core and non-core vaccinations based on exposure risk and lifestyle.

Core Vaccines

Core vaccines are those that every cat needs and includes:

Non-core Vaccines

Non-core cat vaccinations are those that are considered in light of exposure risk and determined by where you live and your lifestyle. Consult your Petco veterinarian about what vaccines are suitable for your best friend. Some of the non-core vaccines administered for cats include FeLV (for cats older than 1 year), Chlamydia felis, and Bordetella bronchiseptica vaccines.

How often does my cat need to be vaccinated?

We recommend kittens receive their core vaccines by 16 weeks of age, while adult cats should receive their vaccines every year.

Which vaccines are recommended?

Additional kitten health treatments

Besides vaccinations, there are a couple of other health treatments that are important to consider for a more well-rounded and holistic view of your cat’s overall health. Pet parents should be aware of treatment solutions to help treat and prevent conditions like flea infestation, tick bites, parasites and heartworm infection to keep their best friend happy and healthy. These treatments and testing options are offered at your veterinarian and at Vetco Total Care full service hospitals and are an important part of an annual examination:

• Deworming: Worms (parasites) are a common problem for cats. Cats more frequently suffer from roundworms and tapeworms that can damage their immune system. Fecal tests are one of the best and most accurate ways for your veterinarian to check your cat for intestinal parasites that, if left untreated, can cause serious illness, or even death.
• Flea & tick medicine: Fleas and ticks are fairly common parasites that can come inside your home by jumping on shoes, clothes and other pets, which means your cat is at risk even if they never go outside. Taking preventive measures can help keep pests away from your cat and prevent an uncomfortable infestation.
• Heartworm: Heartworm infections can go unnoticed in cats and are transmitted by mosquitos. This means your cat is at risk and can have heartworm infections even if they never go outside. Taking preventive measures can help keep mosquitos away and prevent infection.

Book an appointment

Based on your cat’s lifestyle, your veterinarian may advise you on various booster schedules following the initial series of vaccinations referenced above.

For informed answers to your specific questions and concerns—or to learn more about your cat's or kitten’s vaccination schedule and other healthcare needs—find a Vetco Total Care or Vetco Vaccination Clinic near you or to consult someone from the Petco veterinary services team at a store near you.