Kitten Vaccination

There are many diseases that can be fatal to cats. Fortunately, we have the ability to prevent many of these with the use of effective vaccines. In order to be effective, these vaccines must be given as a series of injections. Ideally, they are given at about 6, 9, and 12 weeks. This schedule may vary depending on potential exposure. Cats are vaccinated differently depending on their home environment. Cats and kittens that stay indoors always will have a different set of recommendations than those that go outdoors or have exposure to outdoor cats. All kittens should be tested for Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV) and Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV). All kittens should be vaccinated with a feline distemper combination vaccine that includes panleukopenia, calicivirus (both old and new strains) , and herpesvirus. Rabies vaccination is required by Indiana state law and is given at 12 weeks of age. The American Association of Feline Practitioners recommends all kittens also be vaccinated against FeLV in their first year of life. Cats and kittens that have outdoor exposure should also receive the feline infectious peritonitis (FIP) vaccine.

For the health of your kitten and your family, all kittens should also be checked for intestinal parasites and be dewormed a minimum of two times. In addition, following the recommendations of the Center for Disease Control, all kittens and cats should be placed on a parasite control program. Year round heartworm preventatives are recommended to aid in parasite control.