Core Vaccines: Every cat needs them, regardless of lifestyle
Rabies
Required for all domestic carnivores (dogs, cats, ferrets) and horses in the state of Florida. Exposure comes from contact with the saliva of a potential rabies carrier—usually a wild animal, but domestic animals also carry rabies. Raccoons and bats are the most common carriers in Florida. Bat bites are very small and may not be visible through fur. Rabies is zoonotic and can be spread to humans by domesticated animals.
Frequency
First vaccine at 16 weeks old, booster at 1 year, then once yearly to once every 3 years, depending on product used, for life
Feline respiratory viruses
Sometimes referred to as “feline distemper.” These viral diseases include calci virus (which can also cause dental disease) and infectious feline rhinotracheitis. Both diseases cause mild to severe upper respiratory infections and may lead to pneumonia. Exposure comes from the virus coming in contact with the mucus membranes (eyes, mouth, genitals).
Frequency
Series of three vaccines four weeks apart starting at 6-8 weeks of age. Booster at 1 year, then once yearly to once every 3 years, depending on product used, for life.
Panleukopenia
This viral disease causes vomiting, diarrhea, loss of the intestinal lining, and a crash in the body’s white blood cells. Kittens under six months of age are the most susceptible, but any unvaccinated cat of any age may contract panleuk. Infection is usually fatal even with aggressive medical care.
Frequency
Series of three vaccines four weeks apart, starting at 6-8 weeks of age. Booster at one year, then once yearly to once every 3 years, depending on product used, for life.
Vaccines of concern: Applicable to many cats, depending on lifestyle
Feline leukemia
This is a virus that causes AIDS-like syndromes in cats. It is passed between cats during social grooming and fighting, and occasionally through intercourse. Infection from the environment, such as from shared water bowls, is very rare. Kittens and cats under two years of age have the highest risk, but any cat of any age may be infected. Cats that go outdoors or have access to outdoor, screened-in spaces such as screen porches should be vaccinated for feleuk. All kittens should also be vaccinated.
Frequency
First vaccine at 9 weeks of age, booster in 4 weeks, then once yearly until the cat is over two years of age (indoor only cats), or until cat is no longer at risk of exposure (e.g., cat is no longer allowed out of doors). Low-risk cats (e.g., cats that only have access to screened-in porches) may be vaccinated every other year.
Why does my vet recommend vaccinating my indoor cat?
Cats that never go outdoors live in an environment that may be safe, but is not sterile. Your cat may not go outside, but you do—and so does the rest of your family. Germs can come inside on your shoes, clothes, and skin. Cats may be infected with respiratory diseases through open windows. Sometimes cats escape, and may be exposed to disease while they are on walkabout. Rabies exposure in an indoor cat is unlikely, but it is possible, as bats may get into the house through very small cracks. Additionally, cats are statistically the most likely domestic animal to carry rabies. If a cat bites a human, its owner is legally responsible just as if it were a dog, and just like for a dog, being current on its rabies vaccination will confer some legal protection to the cat.
It is important to keep cats vaccinated, even if they don’t go outside. If you have questions or concerns about vaccinations, vaccine protocols, or vaccine side effects, talk to your veterinarian. We want your pets to stay safe and healthy, and vaccines are one of the best and most efficient ways to make that happen.