Bringing a tiny kitten home is a very special and sweet experience, but it also comes with a lot of responsibilities, which includes making sure you keep up with all the necessary cat vaccinations.
With the help from our favorite vet expert, Dr. Liff, we are going to go through all the vaccinations your kitty will need—the essential ones (the so-called ‘core vaccines’) and the ones that aren’t strictly necessary but may be recommended (’non-core vaccines’).
If you’re short on time click below to download our Kitten Vaccination Checklist to help stay on track of your kitten’s vaccination schedule. Keep in mind: It’s best to determine your kitten’s vaccination plan with your vet.
What vaccines does my kitten need?
Lucky for you, cats are a bit lower maintenance than dogs. That means fewer shots are needed to keep them safe! But Dr. Liff does recommend two important types of vaccines that will protect your kitten against unwanted viruses.
Rabies
Your kitten can be infected with rabies and pass it on to you. Bummer. Indoor cats may not need this shot—but, in most states, your kitty is required to have a rabies vaccination regardless of whether they ever leave your apartment. Your kitten will typically receive one dose after they turn 12 weeks old. Once your cat becomes an adult, they will either receive an annual booster or a booster every three years, depending on your cat’s lifestyle, and the laws in your state.
FVRCP
A three-in-one deal! FVRCP consists of three core vaccines: FPV, FHV-1, and FCV. Here’s what that entails, exactly (don’t worry, we’re not going to test you on this later).
- The Feline Panleukopenia Vaccine (FPV), a.k.a. Feline Distemper, prevents the highly infectious feline parvovirus, which is fatal for many kittens.
- FHV-1 is the technical term for the feline rhinotracheitis virus (a.k.a. feline herpesvirus). Sadly, this high-risk virus can lay dormant in your kitten’s nerves and reactivate itself at a later date. Vaccinating your kitty will prevent a long battle with FVH-1 and symptoms like sneezing, sore throat, and pneumonia.
- FCV, the feline calicivirus, also impacts your kitten’s respiratory system causing sneezing, inflamed gums, hair loss, and, in some cases, death. Dr. Liff suggests this vaccine be given annually, after the initial kitten doses.
When your cat is a kitten, they will normally receive three initial doses, with the first at six to eight weeks old, the second at ten to twelve weeks old, and the third at fourteen to sixteen weeks old. After the initial kitten doses, your cat will then receive an annual booster, or a booster every three years, depending on your cat’s lifestyle.
Should my kitten get any other vaccines?
This depends on the kitten’s lifestyle. If they’re an outdoor cat for example, they might need more vaccines than an indoor cat. The following vaccines are non-core, so it’s up to you and your vet to decide whether to go for these vaccinations or not.
Feline Leukemia (FeLV)
Many cats can live with leukemia. But it might cause other conditions, like lymphoma or anemia.
The feline leukemia virus is transmitted through bodily fluids, so sharing bowls or grooming other cats can be dangerous without this vaccine. As a kitten, your cat will receive two initial doses, one dose at six to eight weeks old, and one dose at ten to twelve weeks old. Once your cat becomes an adult, Dr. Liff recommends this non-core shot be given annually for outdoor cats, or a shot every two years for indoor cats.
Feline Chlamydia
Feline Chlamydia typically affects kittens under nine months of age. Symptoms may include discharge from the eyes, loss of appetite, and a fever.
If there is a higher risk of infection—in a household with multiple cats for example, especially if there has been a case of chlamydia in the past—it might be a good idea to vaccinate your kitten. The first vaccine is given around eight to nine weeks of age, and then two more doses.
If your vet is recommending this vaccine, it is typically included in the FVRCP vaccine, making it one shot or “poke”.
Bordetella
Kittens in shelters can develop bordetellosis bronchiseptica, a highly contagious bacterial infection caused by bordetella (known as “kennel cough” in dogs), a bacteria that causes upper respiratory illness. The non-core bordetellosis vaccine, which is usually given to eight-week-old kittens, protects them from the disease. Since this vaccination is typically given in the shelter or by breeders, it is very rare that your vet would recommend a Bordetella vaccination for your cat.
Cat vaccine breakdowns
Want to learn more about the vaccines your kitty will need? Check out these articles breaking down everything you need to know about each vaccine.
Kitten vaccination schedule + costs
Thankfully, prices are fairly modest, and cats don’t need a ton of vaccines compared to dogs.
| Vaccine | Schedule | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Rabies | 1 dose for kittens, then an annual booster (outdoor cats) or a shot every 3 years (indoor cats) | $25–$50/dose |
| FVRCP | 3 initial doses for kittens, then an annual booster (outdoor cats) or a shot every 3 years (indoor cats) | $25–$70/dose |
| Feline Leukemia | 2 doses for kittens, followed by an annual booster ( outdoor cats) or a shot every 2 years (indoor cats) based on AAFP recommendations) | $25–$70/dose |
| Feline Chlamydia | 1 dose at 6–8 weeks, then 2 more doses. Annual or every 3 years for adult cats based on lifestyle | Is usually included in the FVRCP vaccine |
Want to keep track of your kitten’s vaccination journey? Check out this handy vaccination record.
Does pet insurance cover kitten vaccinations?
Most basic pet insurance policies are designed to help with the costs of unexpected vet costs for accidents and illnesses, and would not cover the costs of routine care like annual exams or vaccinations.
Some insurers—including Lemonade— will offer an optional add-on coverage to cover the routine care your kitty needs, such as vaccinations. At Lemonade, we offer a selection of Preventative Care packages to help with these types of costs.
If your kitten is under two years-old, we’ve even designed a Puppy/Kitten Preventative package, made especially to provide young pets with the care they need to stay healthy. It includes coverage for things like two wellness exams, six vaccines, two fecal or internal parasite tests, one blood test, one FeLV/FIV test, spay/neuter, microchipping and heartworm or flea/tick medication.
Basically, all the major things your kitten needs to grow to healthy!
What else should I keep in mind?
Your kitten shouldn’t be experiencing major side effects from the vaccines. It is normal if they feel slightly uncomfortable or lethargic. Don’t hesitate to call the vet if you feel unsure or notice side effects like facial swelling or vomiting.
And remember that with Lemonade’s pet health insurance policy and our new preventative care package designed especially for kittens, you get help covering the expenses of these vaccines and more!
If you want to read more about the details, click here.
FAQs
What should I do if my kitten misses a scheduled vaccination?
If your kitten misses a scheduled vaccination, contact your vet as soon as possible. They will guide you on how to get back on track, which might include rescheduling the missed shot or adjusting the vaccination plan.
Can my kitten go outside before completing all vaccinations?
It’s best to keep your kitten indoors until they have completed their full vaccination schedule. This helps protect them from potential infections and diseases they are not yet vaccinated against.
How can I make vaccination visits less stressful for my kitten?
To make vet visits less stressful, keep your kitten calm and comfortable in a carrier. Bring their favorite toy or blanket, and try to stay calm yourself, as kittens can pick up on your anxiety.
Can I vaccinate my kitten myself?
It’s not recommended to vaccinate your kitten yourself, as vaccinations should be administered by a licensed veterinarian (DVM) who can ensure the correct type of vaccine, dosage, and administration technique. Vets also monitor for side effects and can provide essential wellness checks to ensure your kitten’s overall health. Plus, some vaccines, like the rabies vaccine, are legally required to be given by a professional in most states.
What if my kitten has a health condition, can they still get vaccinated?
Discuss any health conditions your kitten has with your vet. In many cases, vaccinations can be safely administered, but your vet may adjust the schedule or take special precautions based on your kitten’s health.
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.
