Whether your cat is bought, adopted, or rescued, cat vaccination is a vital process for a cat’s well-being and equally important for humans. So, what vaccines does your cat need? When should you give the vaccines? What helpful tips should you know? All these questions will be answered in this article. Make sure to pay attention to the following information. 

The two general vaccines a cat needs are known as the “3-in-1” vaccine or “FVRCP” and the “RABIES” vaccine.
 

FVRCP – 3-in-1 Vaccine 

This vaccine includes: 

• Feline Herpes Virus, which causes upper respiratory infections and eye infections. 
• Feline Leukopenia Virus/Feline Parvo Virus, which causes vomiting, fever, and diarrhea. 
• Calicivirus, which can cause ulcers in a cat’s mouth. 

When to give the FVRCP vaccine? Between six and eight weeks after birth. 

Rabies Vaccine

 Rabies is a zoonotic virus transmitted through bites. It infects the central nervous system of mammals, ultimately causing brain disease and death. 

When to give the RABIES vaccine? Approximately at 16 weeks of age. 

Leukemia Vaccine

 This is a lifestyle vaccine for cats that go outside and have interaction with other outdoor cats. The Leukemia Virus suppresses a cat’s immune system. 

When to give the Leukemia vaccine? This vaccine is recommended for cats under one year and over 12 weeks of age. Before giving this vaccination, a discussion with a veterinarian is needed. 

Additional Information 

• The FVRCP vaccine requires three to four boosters. 
• The Rabies vaccine requires one booster. 
• The Leukemia vaccine requires two boosters. 
  
  

After the initial set of boosters, the cat will need additional boosters every one to three years, depending on a physical examination and your vet’s recommendations. 

In conclusion, vaccines are essential for your cat’s health, but they can cause side effects and allergic reactions in some cats. After vaccination, cats might experience soreness, eat less, or have a mild fever. If your cat shows more severe symptoms like excessive pain, vomiting, bumps on the body, or facial swelling, contact your vet immediately for further guidance and recommendations. Always monitor your cat’s reaction after vaccination to ensure their safety and good health.