What vaccines does every cat need?

Core vaccines recommended for all cats are FVRCP (feline panleukopenia, herpesvirus, and calicivirus, usually given in one combination shot) and rabies. These are recommended regardless of lifestyle. FeLV vaccination is considered core for cats with outdoor access or exposure to other cats of unknown status, and non-core for strictly indoor cats with no such exposure -- your vet will advise.

How often do adult cats need FVRCP boosters?

After completing the kitten series and the one-year booster, adult cats with good vaccination history typically receive FVRCP every three years. Some individual situations call for more frequent boosters -- your vet will advise based on your cat's health status and lifestyle.

Does my indoor cat need a rabies vaccine?

In most jurisdictions, yes -- rabies vaccination is legally required regardless of whether a cat lives indoors, because the risk of exposure through an escaped animal, a bat entering the home, or other indirect routes is not zero. Check your local regulations, and discuss with your vet.

What is FeLV and which cats should be vaccinated against it?

Feline leukemia virus (FeLV) is a serious viral disease that spreads between cats through close contact, including shared food bowls, mutual grooming, and bite wounds. Cats with outdoor access, those in multi-cat households where new cats are introduced, and cats that interact with cats of unknown health status are candidates for FeLV vaccination. Strictly indoor cats with no exposure risk may not need it -- your vet will assess.

Is it safe to vaccinate a pregnant or nursing cat?

Modified-live vaccines are generally avoided during pregnancy, as they carry a theoretical risk to developing kittens. If a cat is pregnant and unvaccinated, your vet will advise on the safest approach. Ideally, vaccination is completed before breeding. This is one of several situations where individual veterinary guidance is essential rather than following a standard schedule.

Cat Vaccination Schedule | PetCalculator

Core vaccines protect every cat against serious diseases regardless of lifestyle, while non-core vaccines depend on whether your cat goes outdoors. Here is an overview of typical kitten and adult schedules.