Vaccinating your kitten is the first step you as a pet owner can take to make sure your kitten is healthy and protected against potential illnesses. The vaccines recommended to you by your vet depend upon your pet’s lifestyle and individual needs. There are core vaccines, ones which every cat should receive regardless of lifestyle, and non-core vaccines that rely on your cat’s risk factors. Vaccinations are recommended because they allow a cat’s body to create antibodies against a collection of different diseases without experiencing the symptoms or becoming ill – this means that if they do become exposed to the actual disease, their body is already prepared to fight it off.
When do kittens get their first shots?
Kittens receive their first vaccinations at eight weeks of age. They would receive booster vaccines at 12 and 16 weeks of age.
How often do my kittens need vaccines?
Kittens should be vaccinated three times (8, 12 and 16 weeks of age) and then yearly.
Does my kitten need only core vaccines?
What type of vaccines your kitten needs will depend on their lifestyle. Whether they’re an indoor or outdoor cat and what elements they can be exposed to.
Are there any risk associated with vaccines?
Just like people, some cats can react to the ingredients in a vaccine. Your veterinarian will let you know what signs and symptoms to watch for and what precautions should be taken if any problems come up. It is common for a cat to be slightly lethargic or have slight pain at the injection site.
