Complete Cat Vaccination Schedule: When to Start and What to Get

Why Vaccinate Your Cat?

Unvaccinated cats are at high risk of contracting serious preventable diseases such as feline upper respiratory infections, Panleukopenia (which has a very high mortality rate, especially in kittens), and Rabies (dangerous to both cats and humans). Vaccination is a highly effective and cost-efficient method of prevention.

Kitten Vaccination Schedule

• 6-8 Weeks: First FVRCP vaccine (Feline Rhinotracheitis, Calicivirus, Panleukopenia)
• 10-12 Weeks: Second FVRCP booster
• 14-16 Weeks: Third FVRCP booster + First Rabies vaccine

Core Vaccines Every Cat Should Receive

1. FVRCP Combination Vaccine:
   • FVR (Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis): Causes sneezing, nasal discharge, eye inflammation.
   • Calicivirus: Causes oral ulcers, pain, and loss of appetite.
   • Panleukopenia: Highly fatal feline distemper, especially in kittens.
2. Rabies Vaccine: Required by Thai law for all cats, as rabies is transmissible to humans.

Non-Core Vaccines

• FeLV (Feline Leukemia Virus): Recommended for outdoor cats or multi-cat households.
• FIV (Feline Immunodeficiency Virus): Considered on a case-by-case basis.

Annual Boosters

After completing the initial series, annual boosters for FVRCP and Rabies are essential to maintain adequate immunity levels.

What to Watch for After Vaccination

• Mild lethargy and reduced appetite for 1-2 days is normal.
• Slight swelling at the injection site may occur and resolves within 1-2 weeks.
• If severe vomiting, diarrhea, or difficulty breathing occurs, visit your vet immediately (extremely rare).

Makhamtia Animal Hospital in Surat Thani offers cat vaccinations every day, no appointment needed. Call 077-935-414 for consultation on the right vaccine program for your cat.