Vaccinating Your Kitten

Vaccines are an important part of your kitten’s overall health because they protect her and others against infectious diseases. To help ensure the best possible immunity to these diseases, your kitten should receive vaccine boosters within the recommended 3-4 weeks.

FVRCP: Feline Rhinotracheitis, Calicivirus, Panleukopenia

Kittens should receive their first FVRCP vaccines at 8 weeks of age, then every 21 to 28 days until they’re 16 weeks of age. Booster shot again at 1 year after last kitten vaccine.

    • 8 weeks
    • 12 weeks
    • 16 weeks
  • Feline Rhinotracheitis is a common respiratory infection in cats, often fatal in kittens. Symptoms include sneezing, decreased appetite, and fever followed by a thick discharge from the eyes and nose.
  • Calicivirus is a respiratory infection that is usually not fatal, but often leaves the cat more susceptible to serious infections. The signs are similar to Feline Rhinotracheitis, and ulcers may be seen on the tongue and in the mouth.
  • Panleukopenia is a widespread and highly contagious disease that results in loss of appetite, vomiting, and diarrhea. Some adult cats may recover, but it’s often fatal in both kittens and adults.

Feline Leukemia (FeLV)

All kittens should receive this vaccine after a FeLV/FIV test; 2 boosters given at 21- to 28- day interval. Booster shot again at 1 year of age.

    • as early as 10-12 weeks
    • 3-4 weeks later
  • Feline Leukemia is a virus that can cause serious disease and death in cats. It decreases the ability of the immune system to respond to infection and may cause leukemia. It is passed from cat to cat by direct contact to blood and saliva. It is not contagious to people.
  • Feline Leukemia/Feline Immunodeficiency Virus Test
    We recommend testing whenever you bring a new cat into the household and annual on all outdoor cats, regardless of age.

    • as early as 9 weeks

Rabies

Rabies is a rare but dangerous virus that attacks the central nervous system and eventually leads to death. Rabies is transmitted through the bite of an infected animal and can even be transmitted to humans. Common carriers of the Rabies virus in the wild are foxes, raccoons, bats and skunks. First rabies vaccine is given at or after 12 weeks of age.

WE’RE HERE TO HELP!

Owning a pet can be a rewarding experience, but it is also a responsibility that lasts the lifetime of the animal. Got questions or want to schedule an appointment? Give us a call at (919) 380-1157. We look forward to watching your kitten grow into a happy, healthy cat!

Prevention is your best bet for a healthy pet and peace of mind.

Talk to a member of our staff or your Lake Pine veterinarian about vaccinating your best friend today!

Not sure if your pet’s shots are current? Give us a call at (919) 380-1157.

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