Your Kitten’s Vaccination Schedule: What Shots Are Needed and When to Administer Them

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February 27, 2026

Your Kitten's Vaccination Schedule: What Shots Are Needed and When to Administer Them

Your Kitten’s Vaccination Schedule: What Shots Are Needed and When to Administer Them

Vaccination schedules for kittens are structured series of immunizations designed to protect young cats from life-threatening infectious diseases during their most vulnerable weeks and months. This guide explains core versus non-core vaccines, the typical age-based timeline for initial doses and boosters, cost expectations, common side effects, and practical steps for continuing care after adoption. Many new owners worry about timing, vaccine necessity for indoor cats, and how to interpret vaccination records; this article provides clear, research-aligned answers and a reproducible schedule you can share with your veterinarian. You will find an age-by-age table, lifestyle-based recommendations for non-core vaccines like FeLV, cost comparisons including what a breeder package may include, and checklists for monitoring reactions and maintaining records. Throughout, keywords such as “what shots do kittens need and when” and “kitten vaccine timeline by age” are integrated to help you quickly locate the most relevant sections. Read on for actionable timelines, EAV tables that you can copy, and concise lists for quick reference to protect your kitten from common feline pathogens.

What Are the Core Vaccines Every Kitten Needs?

Core vaccines are those recommended for all kittens because they prevent common, severe diseases with public health or population-level importance. The two universally recommended core vaccinations are the FVRCP combination vaccine and rabies vaccination; FVRCP protects against feline viral rhinotracheitis, calicivirus, and panleukopenia, while rabies protects against a fatal zoonotic disease that affects animals and humans. Core vaccines work by exposing the kitten’s immune system to inactivated or modified antigens, which primes antibody and cellular responses so a future natural exposure produces a rapid, protective reaction. Early protection is critical because maternal antibodies wane at different rates, so a series of vaccinations and boosters ensures reliable immunity as the kitten matures. Understanding core vaccines leads naturally into the specifics of each vaccine component and the timing of the initial doses and boosters.

What Is the FVRCP Vaccine and Which Diseases Does It Protect Against?

FVRCP is a combination vaccine that protects against three serious feline diseases: Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis (FHV-1), Feline Calicivirus (FCV), and Feline Panleukopenia (FPV). FHV-1 causes upper respiratory disease with sneezing, eye inflammation, and chronic viral shedding, while FCV ranges from mild respiratory signs to severe oral ulcers and systemic illness in some strains; FPV (panleukopenia) is highly contagious and can cause severe intestinal disease, dehydration, and death. The vaccine stimulates both antibody production and local mucosal immunity, reducing disease severity and transmission risk within multi-cat environments. Because FPV can be particularly lethal in young kittens, FVRCP is considered a foundational preventive measure for every kitten regardless of lifestyle.

Feline Panleukopenia, Calicivirus, and Rhinotracheitis Vaccine Efficacy in Kittens

The vaccine against feline panleukopenia, feline calicivirus infection and feline viral rhinotracheitis is a complex of three viral strains, the use of the vaccines containing two or more viral strains may induce a broader spectrum of immunity.
Clinical efficacy studies of the vaccine against feline panleukopenia, calicivirus infection and viral rhinotracheitis Carnifel PCH in kittens, 2024

When Should Kittens Receive Their First FVRCP Shot?

Kittens typically receive their first FVRCP dose at about 6–8 weeks of age, beginning a series of immunizations that continue every 3–4 weeks until approximately 16–20 weeks of age. This repeat dosing over the early weeks accommodates variable maternal antibody interference and ensures the kitten develops active immunity once maternal antibodies decline. Veterinarians will also perform a baseline health exam during the first vaccine visit to assess weight, hydration, and look for congenital issues that might affect vaccine timing. If a kitten is sick or severely underweight, a vet may postpone vaccination and prioritize stabilization before continuing the series.

Immunogenicity and Safety of Feline Rhinotracheitis, Calicivirus, and Panleukopenia Vaccine

An inactivated vaccine for the prevention of feline viral rhinotracheitis (FVR), caliciviral disease, and panleukopenia was tested for immunogenicity and safety. All cats were challenged with either FVR virus or feline calicivirus (FCV), strain 255.
Immunogenicity and safety of an inactivated vaccine for the prevention of rhinotracheitis, caliciviral disease, and panleukopenia in cats, 1980

Why Is the Rabies Vaccine Essential for Kittens?

Rabies is a universally fatal viral infection that affects the nervous system of mammals and can be transmitted to humans, making rabies prevention both a veterinary and public health priority. Vaccinating kittens against rabies protects the individual animal, reduces transmission risk to people and other animals, and helps communities maintain herd protection. Rabies vaccination programs are central to public safety because once clinical signs appear, rabies has no effective treatment and outcomes are fatal; vaccination interrupts that pathway. Given the zoonotic nature and legal implications of rabies, rabies vaccination is classified as core or legally mandated in most regions.

What Is the Recommended Age for the Rabies Vaccine in Kittens?

Most guidelines recommend administering the first rabies vaccine between 12 and 16 weeks of age, timed so the kitten has completed most of its primary FVRCP series and maternal antibody interference has declined. Local laws and regulations determine whether initial rabies vaccines and boosters are required at specific intervals (often annually or every three years), so owners should confirm regional requirements with their veterinarian or public health authority. The rabies vaccine elicits strong systemic immunity, and keeping accurate records of dates and vaccine type is important for legal and boarding/travel requirements. Knowing the rabies schedule sets the stage for the complete age-based timeline described next.

How Does the Complete Kitten Vaccination Schedule Look by Age?

A clear, age-based timeline helps owners and vets coordinate initial doses, boosters, and necessary health checks within the kitten’s first months. The schedule below summarizes typical recommendations for the first-year series and subsequent adult boosters, balancing maternal antibody considerations with the need for early protection. Remember that individual kittens may require adjustments based on health, prior exposures, or local regulations, so use this timeline as a practical template for conversation with your veterinarian. After the table you’ll find short explanations of each age bracket and booster logic to guide decisions about timing and documentation.

Kitten Age	Vaccine Type	Dose / Booster Timing & Disease Protected
6–8 weeks	FVRCP (1st dose); deworming	Start primary FVRCP series to protect FHV-1, FCV, FPV; begin parasite control
9–12 weeks	FVRCP (2nd dose); +/- FeLV start	Booster FVRCP every 3–4 weeks; consider FeLV if risk present
14–16 weeks	FVRCP (final dose); Rabies (1st dose)	Final core series and first rabies dose (per law and vet guidance)
Adult (1 year+)	Boosters (FVRCP/rabies per product)	One-year booster then every 1–3 years depending on vaccine and local law

This table provides a copyable schedule to bring to your vet and to include in your kitten’s records; it balances frequent early boosters with documented final dosing near 14–16 weeks. The booster logic relies on short intervals early in life to overcome maternal antibody interference and then transitions to longer adult intervals determined by vaccine type and regional regulations.

What Vaccines Should Kittens Receive at 6 to 8 Weeks?

At 6–8 weeks, most kittens receive their first FVRCP dose, a full physical exam, and often an initial deworming treatment to address roundworms and hookworms commonly transmitted from the mother. The first visit also allows the veterinarian to screen for congenital abnormalities, assess weight gain, and advise on nutrition and socialization. If the kitten is healthy, this appointment initiates the vaccination series and sets the timetable for subsequent boosters every 3–4 weeks. Early deworming and the initial FVRCP create a baseline of health protection as the kitten’s immune system begins to develop active defenses.

What Are the Booster Shots Needed Between 9 and 12 Weeks?

Between 9 and 12 weeks, kittens typically receive a booster FVRCP dose and may begin the FeLV vaccine series if they are at risk due to outdoor access or multi-cat households with unknown FeLV status. Boosters every 3–4 weeks are crucial during this window because maternal antibodies can neutralize early vaccines, and repeated dosing raises the chance of a robust immune response. Vets will also monitor for any local reactions and assess the kitten’s growth and overall response to earlier vaccines. Decisions about starting FeLV depend on exposure risk; testing before vaccination is sometimes recommended.

When Are Final Shots and Rabies Vaccinations Administered at 14 to 16 Weeks?

Final core series doses are commonly given at 14–16 weeks, a point when maternal antibodies have usually waned and kittens can mount a reliable immune response to the last FVRCP booster and other indicated vaccines. The rabies vaccine is often administered in this window in accordance with local laws and veterinary recommendations, and owners are provided with documentation recording vaccine type, date, and next due dates. After these final juvenile shots, the next scheduled checkpoint is typically a one-year booster to confirm long-term protection. Proper documentation at this stage (veterinary passport or vaccination record) supports legal compliance and boarding/travel requirements.

How Often Do Adult Cats Need Booster Vaccinations?

Adult booster frequency depends on vaccine product and local regulations: some FVRCP and rabies formulations require annual boosters for the first year then move to every three years for certain products, while others maintain yearly intervals. Veterinarians tailor adult schedules based on the cat’s lifestyle, regional disease prevalence, and product-specific recommendations to balance immunity and minimize unnecessary vaccinations. Regular wellness exams give an opportunity to reassess risk factors and update vaccines, and maintaining accurate records prevents lapses in protection. Understanding adult booster cadence helps owners plan long-term preventive care and budget for routine veterinary visits.

3-Year Immunity Duration for Core Feline Vaccines

The AAFP and AFM Advisory Panel on Feline Vaccines made the recommendation that a 3-year vaccination interval rather than annual revaccination for these three core feline antigens (FRV, FCV, and FPV).
Three-year duration of immunity in cats following vaccination against feline rhinotracheitis virus, feline calicivirus, and feline panleukopenia virus, JR Williams, 2006

What Are the Legal Booster Requirements for Rabies in Adult Cats?

Rabies booster requirements are governed by local and state law and commonly specify whether boosters are required annually or every three years depending on the vaccine used. Owners should verify local public health regulations and maintain original certificates or a veterinary passport as proof of current status, since many municipalities require documented rabies protection for licensing or after suspected exposures. Veterinarians can advise about the exact timing and documentation needed to comply with statutory requirements. Keeping clear records ensures you can rapidly demonstrate compliance for boarding, travel, or legal inquiries.

Which Non-Core Vaccines Might Your Kitten Need Based on Lifestyle?

Non-core vaccines are given based on individual risk factors such as outdoor access, multi-cat environments, or geographic disease prevalence; the most commonly considered non-core vaccine for kittens is the Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV) vaccine. Non-core decisions are risk-based: if a kitten is destined for outdoor life, will cohabit with cats of unknown status, or will be placed in shelters or catteries, vaccination against FeLV is frequently recommended. The decision process involves weighing transmission routes, potential severity of disease, and the kitten’s expected exposures, then discussing with your veterinarian to reach an informed plan. After understanding non-core options, owners can make lifestyle-appropriate choices and schedule vaccines accordingly.

Non-Core Vaccine	Who Should Get It	Recommended Timing & Boosters
FeLV vaccine	Outdoor cats; multi-cat households; cats with unknown exposure	Start at ~8–9 weeks if indicated; booster 3–4 weeks later; recheck per vet
FIV vaccine (region-dependent)	High-risk feral or shelter cats in endemic areas	Region-specific recommendations; consult local vet
Chlamydophila/Bordetella	Cats in catteries, shelters, or frequent boarding	Given based on outbreak risk; timing per clinic protocol

This comparison clarifies when a non-core vaccine like FeLV becomes relevant and how timing aligns with the core series to avoid overloading the immune response in a single visit. Discussing these options with your veterinarian will personalize the plan to your kitten’s living situation.

What Is the Feline Leukemia Virus Vaccine and Who Should Get It?

FeLV is a retrovirus that suppresses immune function and can cause anemia, cancer, and chronic infections; it transmits through close contact, shared bowls, grooming, bites, and from mother to kitten. The FeLV vaccine is recommended for kittens at risk of exposure—outdoor cats, cats living with FeLV-positive animals, and cats whose lifestyle includes boarding or exposure to unknown cats. Because FeLV can be severe and persistent, vaccination is a preventive option that reduces the chance of infection and the resulting long-term health consequences. The vet may test for FeLV prior to vaccinating if exposure history suggests infection.

When Should Kittens Receive the FeLV Vaccine?

When indicated, the FeLV vaccine often begins around 8–9 weeks of age with a second dose 3–4 weeks later and booster schedules determined by the vaccine product and risk level. Pre-vaccination testing for FeLV is sometimes recommended to avoid vaccinating an already infected kitten, as vaccine responses differ if infection is present. Timing should be coordinated so that FeLV doses do not conflict with other critical boosters and so veterinarians can monitor for side effects after each administration. This schedule ensures that kittens at risk gain earlier protection while minimizing unnecessary interventions for low-risk cats.

Do Indoor Kittens Need the Same Vaccines as Outdoor Kittens?

Core vaccines (FVRCP and rabies) are recommended for all kittens regardless of being indoor-only because those diseases are severe and can affect any cat through unforeseen exposures or legal requirements. Non-core vaccines such as FeLV are determined by lifestyle: strictly indoor kittens with no exposure to other cats generally have lower FeLV risk and may not need the vaccine, whereas indoor kittens that will socialize with other cats or occasionally go outdoors may benefit from additional protection. Decisions should be individualized, balancing risk, regional disease presence, and the cat’s future lifestyle plans. Discussing likely exposures with your veterinarian will clarify which non-core vaccines are appropriate.

What Other Non-Core Vaccines Are Available for Kittens?

Additional non-core vaccines sometimes used in specific settings include vaccines for Chlamydophila felis and Bordetella bronchiseptica, which are primarily considered for catteries, shelters, or cats that will be boarded frequently. In some regions, FIV vaccination protocols exist but are less common and may be recommended only for high-risk populations; local disease prevalence and testing availability guide these choices. Because disease ecology differs by geography and environment, a consultation with your local veterinarian will determine which of these optional vaccines, if any, best match your kitten’s anticipated exposures. Tailoring vaccination reduces unnecessary treatments and targets protection where it matters most.

What Are the Common Side Effects and Risks of Kitten Vaccinations?

Vaccinations are broadly safe but can produce transient, mild side effects such as soreness at the injection site, decreased appetite, or temporary lethargy; these responses reflect immune activation and typically resolve within 24–72 hours. Severe reactions like anaphylaxis, though rare, require immediate veterinary attention and are estimated at low frequencies in healthy populations; quick recognition and emergency care mitigate risk. Monitoring after vaccination, documenting any reactions, and reporting them to your veterinarian ensures safe continuation of the series and informs future vaccine choices. Understanding common reactions and emergency signs prepares owners to care for kittens during vaccinations and to seek help promptly if needed.

What Mild Side Effects Can Occur After Vaccination?

Mild side effects include localized soreness or small lumps at the injection site, brief decreases in activity or appetite, and low-grade fever, with most kittens recovering within a couple of days with rest and supportive care. Owners can provide a quiet, warm place, encourage gentle feeding, and monitor hydration; non-prescription pain medication should not be given without veterinary approval. These mild effects reflect the immune system’s response to the vaccine antigens and are common enough that veterinarians typically warn owners in advance. If mild signs persist beyond 72 hours or worsen, contacting the clinic for guidance is the appropriate next step.

How Rare Are Severe Vaccine Reactions in Kittens?

Severe vaccine reactions are uncommon but can include anaphylaxis, severe vomiting or diarrhea, facial swelling, or collapse; estimates indicate such reactions occur in a very small percentage of vaccinated animals, making them rare events. Because the likelihood is low, veterinarians weigh the high protective benefits of vaccination against this small risk, and they prepare protocols for rapid treatment should a severe reaction occur. Owners should be informed about emergency signs and have contact details for immediate veterinary care in case of severe responses. Documentation of any severe reaction is vital for future vaccine planning and legal records.

How Should You Monitor Your Kitten After Vaccination?

After vaccination, observe your kitten closely for the first 24–72 hours, checking for injection-site swelling, normal activity levels, appetite, and signs of allergic reaction like facial swelling or breathing difficulty. Keep a written note of vaccine type, lot number (if provided), and any reactions to share with your veterinarian during follow-up and future visits. If mild signs persist beyond a few days or any severe signs appear, seek veterinary care immediately and bring the vaccination record; timely reporting helps veterinarians manage and report adverse events. Recording reactions also supports long-term individualized vaccine plans and owner peace of mind.

Key monitoring steps include:

Check the injection site twice daily for redness or lumps.
Note appetite and activity level; report a 24+ hour decline.
Seek emergency care for facial swelling, breathing difficulty, or collapse.

How Much Do Kitten Vaccinations Cost and What Is Included?

Understanding typical vaccine costs helps owners budget for the first year of care and compare breeder-included packages to separate veterinary expenses. Prices vary widely by region and clinic type, but initial series costs typically include the veterinary exam fee plus FVRCP doses, rabies vaccine, and any recommended deworming or tests. Some breeders package these services into the kitten sale, including certified vet checks, vaccination dates logged in a veterinary passport, microchipping, deworming, and a health guarantee, which can reduce early-owner expenses and provide documented assurance of care. Below is a comparative table showing typical vet cost ranges alongside what a breeder package may include to help you evaluate value.

Service / Item	Typical Price Range	Notes about Inclusion / Variability
Initial exam + FVRCP series	$50–$200	Varies by clinic, may be lower at low-cost clinics
Rabies vaccine	$15–$50	Cost depends on single- vs. multi-year product and clinic fees
FeLV vaccine (series)	$20–$80	Region and clinic-dependent; testing may add cost
Breeder health package (example)	Varies	May include certified exam, vaccination record, microchip, deworming, health guarantee

What Is the Typical Price Range for Initial Kitten Vaccinations?

Typical first-year vaccination costs depend on clinic type and included services; an initial exam combined with the core FVRCP series and rabies may range broadly from lower-cost clinics to full-service veterinary practices. Factors affecting price include regional cost of living, whether microchipping or testing is bundled, and whether non-core vaccines like FeLV are added. Budgeting for boosters, potential diagnostics, and an initial wellness visit will give a realistic estimate for the first year. Owners should request itemized estimates from local clinics to plan accurately.

How Does MeoWoff Kittens’ Vaccination Package Provide Value?

MeoWoff Kittens provides vaccinated purebred kittens sourced from WCF-registered European catteries and supplies certified health checks performed by licensed EU veterinarians, documented vaccination dates in a veterinary passport, systematic deworming, microchipping, and a one-year genetic health guarantee. These inclusions reduce the initial out-of-pocket costs for new owners, ensure transparent documentation of what has been administered prior to adoption, and offer post-purchase support and guidance for continuing the schedule with a local veterinarian. Having a complete veterinary passport and a documented vaccination timeline from the breeder simplifies the handoff to your local clinic and builds buyer confidence in the kitten’s early preventive care.

Are There Additional Costs for Booster Shots and Non-Core Vaccines?

Ongoing costs after adoption include periodic boosters (timing per vaccine product and local law), non-core vaccine series if indicated (FeLV, others), and potential licensing fees for rabies in some jurisdictions. Travel, boarding, or exposure changes may prompt earlier boosters or additional vaccines, and these should be factored into annual wellness budgets. Consult your local vet for precise pricing; planning ahead avoids lapses in protection and unexpected expenses.

How Should You Continue Vaccination Care After Adopting a Kitten?

Continuing vaccination care begins with transferring and reviewing the vaccination records provided at adoption, scheduling the next required booster with a local veterinarian, and setting reminders to maintain on-time protection. A clear handoff includes the veterinary passport with dates and vaccine types, any health guarantee documentation, microchip information, and deworming history; these records enable a local vet to create a tailored long-term schedule. Establishing a relationship with a nearby clinic allows timely boosters, rapid response to adverse reactions, and adjustments for lifestyle changes like boarding or travel. With proper documentation and a simple action plan, owners can maintain continuous, compliant protection for their cat.

What Vaccination Records and Documentation Will You Receive?

Expect to receive a veterinary passport or vaccination certificate that lists vaccine types, dates administered, booster recommendations, certified EU veterinary checks, microchip details, deworming records, and the one-year genetic health guarantee when adopting a kitten from a responsible breeder. These documents serve as proof of vaccination for boarding, travel, or legal purposes and make it straightforward to transfer care to a local veterinarian. Keep both digital and physical copies and present them at the first local visit to align future boosters and testing. Proper documentation streamlines care continuity and supports long-term health monitoring.

How Can You Maintain Your Kitten’s Vaccination Schedule at Home?

Maintaining a vaccination schedule is easiest with a combination of digital reminders, a photographed copy of the veterinary passport, and calendar alerts for upcoming booster dates and annual checkups. Many veterinary clinics offer client portals or reminder systems that can automate notifications, while owners should also keep a printed backup in an accessible place. A routine of checking records prior to travel or boarding prevents lapses in required vaccinations and helps ensure documentation is available when needed. These practices reduce missed boosters and keep your kitten protected.

When Should You Consult a Veterinarian About Vaccination Updates?

Contact your veterinarian if your kitten shows vaccine reactions that are severe or prolonged, if your cat’s lifestyle changes (e.g., starts going outdoors, boarding, or living with new cats), prior to travel or rehoming, or if exposure to sick animals occurs. Prompt consultation ensures timely booster administration, post-exposure prophylaxis decisions, or diagnostic testing where needed. Vets can also advise on vaccine selection and legal documentation required for rabies licensing or travel. Early communication prevents gaps in protection and clarifies necessary next steps.

What Are the Most Frequently Asked Questions About Kitten Vaccinations?

What Shots Do Kittens Need and When Should They Get Them?

Kittens need core FVRCP starting at 6–8 weeks with boosters every 3–4 weeks until about 16–20 weeks, and the rabies vaccine typically between 12–16 weeks; non-core vaccines like FeLV are given based on lifestyle risk. Refer to the age-based schedule table earlier in this article and bring that copy to your veterinarian to plan precise dates. Keeping this succinct timeline helps owners understand immediate vaccination priorities and next appointments.

How Often Do Kittens Need Booster Shots?

Kittens usually receive boosters every 3–4 weeks during the initial series and then a one-year booster before transitioning to longer adult intervals that can be annual or triennial depending on vaccine product and local law. Vaccine-specific recommendations and local regulations determine adult booster frequency, so consult your vet for a tailored plan. Accurate records of prior doses ensure appropriate future timing.

Do Indoor Cats Require All the Same Vaccines as Outdoor Cats?

Core vaccines (FVRCP and rabies) are recommended for all cats, including indoor-only animals; non-core vaccines such as FeLV are recommended based on exposure risk and lifestyle differences. Discussing your cat’s expected environment with a veterinarian clarifies whether additional protection is warranted. This risk-based approach optimizes protection while avoiding unnecessary vaccines.

What Are the Signs of Vaccine Side Effects in Kittens?

Common mild signs include soreness at the injection site, brief lethargy, low appetite, or a small, transient lump; severe signs like facial swelling, difficulty breathing, persistent vomiting, or collapse require immediate veterinary attention. Monitor closely for 24–72 hours and contact your vet promptly for severe or persistent symptoms. Document any reaction and share details at future visits to guide ongoing vaccine choices.

How Can I Ensure My Kitten’s Vaccination Schedule Is Up to Date?

To keep your kitten current, follow these steps:

Review the veterinary passport and confirm the date of the next booster.
Schedule the next appointment with your local veterinarian before the current booster is due.
Set digital calendar reminders and keep a photographed copy of the vaccination record.
Contact your breeder or veterinarian if documentation is incomplete or unclear.

These simple actions help prevent missed doses and ensure continuous protection for your kitten as it grows.