In most states, it’s required by law that cats get the rabies vaccine. In 2024, the average cost of a rabies shot for cats ranges from $25 to $50.
Your cat should receive one initial dose of the rabies vaccine when they’re twelve to sixteen weeks old, as well as annual boosters or boosters every three years—depending on your kitty’s lifestyle, whether they are a strictly indoor cat or an adventurous outdoor kitty.
The cost of a rabies vaccine for cats can vary depending on where you take your cat to receive the shot, and whether you and your vet choose to vaccinate your feline annually or every three years.
Let’s get into the specifics of this crucial part of your kitten’s vaccination schedule. Or if you’re short on time, click below for a handy timeline of all the vaccinations your furry friend will need during kittenhood, plus a vaccination record template to help keep track of their vaccination schedule.
TL;DR
- Rabies is a fatal disease, transferred to pets from infected wild animals.
- The rabies vaccine is the best way to combat this disease and is legally required by most states.
- Kittens should get one dose of the rabies vaccine, followed by a booster every one or three years, depending on if they are indoor or outdoor.
- The cost of the rabies vaccine can range from $25 to $50 per shot.
- Lemonade’s Preventative Care Packages can help cover the costs of your cat’s rabies vaccines.
What is rabies?
Rabies is a deadly and aggressive viral disease that affects the nervous system of mammals, including cats. It is typically transmitted through the bite or scratch of an infected animal. In North America, rabies most typically spreads from infected bats, raccoons, skunks, or foxes.
Once infected with rabies, cats can take three to eight weeks to start showing symptoms, which can include:
- Behavioral changes
- Excessive drooling
- Difficulty swallowing
- Uncoordinated movements
- Aggression
Unfortunately, rabies in cats can only be prevented before these symptoms occur. Once symptoms appear, the disease progresses rapidly, and a cat can die within seven to ten days.
Luckily for cat parents, there is a rabies vaccine available that can prevent this heartbreaking disease.
How does the rabies vaccine work?
Just like other cat vaccinations, the rabies vaccine stimulates the immune system to produce a protective response. This defense guards your cat if they’re ever exposed to the virus.
Besides rabies, essential (or “core”) vaccines will typically include FVRCP (feline distemper, feline rhinotracheitis virus, and feline calicivirus). Non-core vaccines, given based on the risk factors of the cat—like their lifestyle—could include Feline Leukemia (FeLV) and Feline Chlamydia.
How much does a rabies shot for cats cost?
On average the cost of a rabies shot can range roughly $25 to $50 per dose, low-cost vaccination clinics or animal shelters may offer it at a reduced price, especially when included in a package with other essential pet vaccinations.
The cost of the rabies vaccine for a cat can vary based on factors, such as:
- Where you take your cat for their shots
- Whether it’s administered at a veterinary clinic or a low-cost vaccination clinic
- If it’s part of a vaccination package
- Which round of vaccines it is—for example the three-year vaccine is often more expensive than the one-year vaccine
How often do cats need rabies shots?
There is no perfect, one-size-fits-all-paws kitten vaccination schedule. Make these decisions together with your vet.
Lemonade’s favorite vet expert, Dr. Stephanie Liff, recommends that kittens receive their first rabies vaccine at or after 12 weeks of age, then annually for outdoor cats or every three years for indoor cats. However, whether your cat receives the one-year or three-year vaccine can also depend on the manufacturer of the vaccine your vet uses. But this will also depend on the laws in your state, and the specific risk factors of your kitty.
Does pet insurance cover the costs of rabies vaccines?
Yes, pet insurance usually can include wellness coverage for vaccinations, including the rabies vaccine, when they’re administered or supervised by a licensed vet. But the specifics will depend on the coverages you chose when signing up, as well as the deductibles and co-insurance you selected.
When you include the Puppy/Kitten Preventative Care Package on your Lemonade Pet policy, for example, your kitten will be eligible for coverage on up to six vaccines a year—which could include rabies shots.
This package could also help cover the costs associated with microchip implantation, spay/neuter procedures, heartworm, flea, and tick prevention, heartworm tests, and more.
For adult cats, Lemonade’s Preventative Care or Preventative+ Package also includes up to three vaccinations per year, which could help cover the costs of booster shots that your cat needs during their adult life as part of your kitty’s rabies prevention plan.
What are the potential side effects of rabies shots?
While side effects post-rabies shot aren’t super common, some cats might experience specific symptoms after their vaccination, including:
- A mild fever
- Lethargy
- Decreased appetite
- Localized swelling
In rare cases, they may have an allergic reaction that requires immediate veterinary attention. According to Dr. Liff, the signs of an allergic reaction may include:
- Vomiting
- Facial Swelling
- Facial Redness
If you suspect your cat is having an allergic reaction to the rabies vaccine, you should call your vet ASAP, or bring your cat to the closest emergency vet.
Keep in mind that the benefits of protecting your cat from rabies and other infectious diseases, like the feline leukemia virus or feline panleukopenia, far outweigh the potential risk of side effects.
Before we go…
Investing in pet insurance early in your kitten’s life can help provide your fur fam with extensive coverage—from core vaccines to unforeseen accidents and illnesses as they grow up into adult cats.
Did you know that at Lemonade Pet you can cover your kitty with cat insurance from the time they’re two months old?
Click below to get your quote started today.
FAQs
Do indoor cats really need the rabies vaccine?
Yes, indoor cats still need rabies shots because they can be exposed to rabies through accidental encounters with wild animals if they escape outside, or if a rabies-infected bat accidentally gets inside your home. Additionally, rabies vaccination is often required by law.
Why is the rabies vaccine legally required for cats?
The rabies vaccine is legally required for cats in most states because rabies is a fatal disease that can be transmitted to humans and other animals. Vaccinating cats helps prevent the spread of this dangerous virus.
How do I know if my cat is due for a rabies booster shot?
Your vet will keep track of your cat’s vaccination schedule and notify you when a booster shot is needed. It’s important to follow the recommended schedule to ensure your cat remains protected.
What is the difference between a one-year and a three-year rabies vaccine?
The main difference is that the one-year rabies vaccine requires annual boosters, while the three-year vaccine protects for three years before needing a booster. The three-year vaccine is typically more expensive due to its higher dose. Indoor cats, with their lower risk, are often good candidates for the three-year vaccine, whereas the one-year vaccine is usually recommended for outdoor cats. However, you and your vet should decide the best option for your cat together.
Are there any special considerations for older cats getting the rabies vaccine?
If your older cat has been vaccinated regularly throughout their life, there is a lower risk of side effects. However, there is a risk of feline injection-site sarcoma (aka FISS), which are cancerous tumors that can arise following an injection at any age. Discuss your cat’s overall health and vaccination schedule with your vet to ensure they receive the best care.
A few quick words, because we <3 our lawyers: This post is general in nature, and any statement in it doesn’t alter the terms, conditions, exclusions, or limitations of policies issued by Lemonade, which differ according to your state of residence. You’re encouraged to discuss your specific circumstances with your own professional advisors. The purpose of this post is merely to provide you with info and insights you can use to make such discussions more productive! Naturally, all comments by, or references to, third parties represent their own views, and Lemonade assumes no responsibility for them. Coverage and discounts may not be available in all states.
