what vaccinations does my kitten need?

Your kitten needs a vaccination schedule to stay happy and healthy

Your little catling is a sweet bundle of pouncy, purry love — one that needs your help to stay healthy, happy, and safe. One of the most important things you can do for your kittyBAE is to make sure they get their vaccinations against disease. Here’s what to know about which vaccinations they need, when they need them, and how much you can expect to pay.

illustration veterinarian holding black cat

Vaccinations for kittens and cats

Kittens need a series of a few different vaccinations to give them full protection. The schedule typically starts when they’re about 6 to 8 weeks old, and runs until they’re about 16 weeks. After that, cats need boosters every year to a few years (depending on the vaccine) to help keep their immunity going strong. We always recommend keeping vaccination records handy to help you make sure they’re up to date.

Core vs. non-core vaccines

Vaccines fall into two categories: Core and Non-core.

Core vaccines are the ones we recommend for the majority of kitties, based largely on their health. They are vital to ensure the well-being of both you and your kittyBAE.

Non-core vaccines and tests are recommended based on lifestyle. Talk to your veterinary team if your kittyBAE spends a lot of time outside and could benefit from non-core vaccines, like FeLV.

Core	Non-Core*
Rabies This disease is fatal for mammals, including humans.	Feline Leukemia (FeLV) Recommended for indoor/outdoor cats, or cats who come into contact with them.
Feline Rhinotracheitis (FVR)* A major cause of recurring upper respiratory disease in cats.	Test for feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) Like FeLV, this test for an infectious retrovirus is recommended for indoor/outdoor cats.
Calicivirus (FCV) Causes upper respiratory and oral disease in cats.
Feline panleukopenia* An extremely dangerous type of parvovirus that is sometimes called feline distemper.

*Often included in a combination vaccine, FVRCP, which may include Feline Rhinotracheitis (FVR), Calicivirus, and panleukopenia.

Visiting us soon?

Check out our quick video on why vaccinations for your kitten are oh so important. Plus, find out what to expect after your kitten receives them.

Watch the video on vaccinations for pets

How much do vaccinations cost?

Vaccine prices for pets may depend on what your veterinary team recommends based on your location. That’s one reason we offer kitten Optimum Wellness Plans® (OWP), so you can know what you’re paying (and what you get). Our OWPs are smart, affordable packages of preventive kitten veterinary care that includes all routinely-recommended kitten vaccinations.

See kitten packages

veterinarian black lap cat read pamphlet

How Banfield can help

Your veterinary team is here to help advise you on which vaccinations your kitten needs, and when they need them. We’re also here to keep an eye on your kitten’s general health, admire their adorableness, and help identify and work to treat any health issues we spot during your kitty’s general exams.

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