Kitten Vaccine Guide: What Every New Cat Owner Needs to Know About Kitten Vaccination and Schedule

Not sure when your kitten needs vaccines or which ones to get? Vaccinations are an essential part of early veterinary care, helping your kitten build immunity against dangerous and highly infectious diseases. Whether you have an indoor cat or one that goes outside, following the right kitten vaccination schedule is a must.

Core vaccines like the FVRCP combination vaccine, which protect against feline viral rhinotracheitis, feline calicivirus, and feline panleukopenia, typically start at 8 weeks old. The rabies vaccine is also required, and non-core vaccines like FeLV (feline leukemia virus) may be recommended based on lifestyle and risk. Most kittens complete their initial series by 16 weeks of age under the guidance of a trusted veterinarian.

A few timely shots can guard your kitten against deadly threats like feline distemper, leukemia virus, and rabies. Vaccines help trigger the right antibody response, keeping your cat protected long-term. Ready to give your kitten the healthy start they deserves? Read on to learn more about the vaccines, the schedule, and what each vaccine protects against.

What Vaccines Do Kittens and Cats Need: Core Vaccines and Non-Core Vaccines and What Each Vaccine Protects Against

Vaccines are essential to protect your kitten from serious and often life-threatening diseases. Whether your cat will live strictly indoors or explore the outdoors, vaccinations prepare their immune system to fight off viruses and bacteria they may encounter—understanding which vaccines your kitten needs, and why, is the first step in responsible cat parenting.

Core Vaccines for Kittens and Cats

These are the vaccines recommended for all kittens and cats, no matter their lifestyle. They protect against diseases that are widespread, highly contagious, and often fatal.

1. FVRCP Vaccine (Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis, Calicivirus, Panleukopenia)

Often given as a combination vaccine starting at 6-8 weeks of age, this covers three serious viral diseases:

• Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis (Feline Herpesvirus Type-1)

Causes severe upper respiratory infections, sneezing, and eye and nasal discharge. It’s highly contagious, especially in shelters or multi-cat homes.

• Feline Calicivirus (FCV)

Another common viral disease that causes mouth ulcers, drooling, fever, and respiratory issues. It spreads easily between cats, especially in high-risk areas.

• Feline Panleukopenia (FPV)

Also called feline distemper, this disease attacks the gastrointestinal and immune systems. It is often deadly in kittens and easily spread through contaminated surfaces or litter.

Kittens receive this vaccine every 3-4 weeks until the kitten is about 16-20 weeks or 4-5 months of age, followed by a vaccine booster at one year, then every 1-3 years depending on risk and vet recommendations.

2. Rabies Vaccine

Rabies is a fatal viral disease that can affect both animals and humans. It’s typically required by law, even for indoor cats, because of the public health risk.

• Rabies Vaccination

This is usually given at 12 weeks of age or older, with a booster at one year, then every 1–3 years depending on the vaccine brand and local laws.

Non-Core Vaccines for Kittens and Cats

These are optional and based on your cat’s lifestyle, environment, and exposure risk. Your vet will help you decide which are appropriate.

1. Feline Leukemia Vaccine (FeLV)

Recommended for kittens and outdoor or social cats, FeLV is a contagious viral disease spread through saliva, grooming, or shared food and water bowls.

• FeLV Vaccine

It is usually started at 8–12 weeks of age with a booster 3–4 weeks later. Even if your kitten becomes an indoor cat, early vaccination is often recommended during the initial kitten series.

2. Feline Immunodeficiency Virus Vaccine (FIV)

FIV is a viral disease similar to HIV in humans, weakening the immune system over time. It’s spread mostly through bite wounds from infected cats.

• While not routinely given, this vaccine may be considered for cats at high risk, such as those in outdoor or multi-cat environments.

3. Bordetella Vaccine

Bordetella bronchiseptica causes upper respiratory infections and is more common in shelters or boarding facilities.

• It may be recommended if your cat will be around many other cats, especially in group settings. This vaccine can be given as early as 8 weeks of age.

4. Chlamydia Felis Vaccine

Chlamydia causes eye infections and conjunctivitis, and may be included in some combination vaccines.

• The vaccine is often given as part of the FVRCP combo if your cat is at higher risk, such as in crowded living conditions or rescue shelters.

5. Feline Infectious Peritonitis (FIP) Vaccine

FIP is caused by a mutation of the feline coronavirus. The vaccine for FIP exists, but it’s controversial and not widely recommended due to limited effectiveness.

• It may be discussed in high-risk situations, but most vets do not recommend it for general use.

Understanding the Kitten Vaccination Schedule: When Do Kittens Get Their First Shots?

Cats and kittens rely on a structured vaccine series to build immunity after the temporary protection from maternal antibodies fades. The timing of this schedule is critical to ensure a healthy immune response.

When Are Vaccines First Given?

A typical kitten begins its series of vaccines at about 6 to 8 weeks of age. This is when maternal immunity begins to drop, and the kitten will need core protection.

• The first vaccines are given at around 6 weeks and are repeated every three to four weeks.
• Early vaccines are usually included in a combination vaccine that protects against feline rhinotracheitis, which is caused by the feline herpes virus.
• The schedule applies to both indoor and outdoor kittens.

Why Does the Schedule Start Early?

Kittens from their mother receive maternal antibodies, which provide short-term protection, but that protection fades quickly.

• Within several weeks until the kitten becomes more vulnerable, the kitten will lose its short-term immunity.
• When the kitten loses this protection, it is at a higher risk of infection.
• Starting the vaccine series early ensures the immune system is ready before this happens.

What Vaccines Are Given First?

The first two vaccines are usually core types, given as part of a vaccine series.

• These different vaccinations are typically repeated every three to four weeks until the kitten is about 16–20 weeks old.
• The vaccine that protects against feline rhinotracheitis is almost always included in early shots.
• Since feline leukemia is a viral disease that affects kittens and adult cats, it may be added depending on the vet’s recommendation.

How Do These Vaccines Work?

Vaccinations stimulate the kitten’s immune system to recognize and fight infections.

• Even though a cat may seem healthy, underlying risk still exists once maternal immunity fades.
• The vaccine series is timed carefully to build a strong, lasting defense.
• Following the correct intervals, every three to four weeks, is essential for full protection.

Kitten Vaccine Schedule Explained: How Often to Vaccinate and When to Get Boosters

A typical kitten requires a well-timed vaccine series that begins early in life and continues until their immune system can function independently. This schedule ensures protection against serious diseases as the protection received from maternal antibodies gradually fades.

Initial Vaccinations

Vaccines are first administered while a kitten still carries partial protection from its mother.

• Kittens from their mother receive short-term immune protection through maternal antibodies, but this doesn't last long.
• As a kitten loses this temporary immunity, they becomes more vulnerable to infection.
• To bridge this gap, vaccines are given during the early weeks of life to gradually build immunity.
• Deworming typically starts at 2 to 3 weeks of age and is repeated every 2 weeks until 8 to 12 weeks old, then monthly until 6 months.
• Common parasites like roundworms and hookworms are addressed through regular deworming treatments prescribed by a vet.

Starting Age and Frequency

The vaccination process typically begins while maternal protection is still waning.

• The vaccine series usually starts when the kitten is between 6 to 8 weeks old.
• Vaccines are repeated every three to four weeks during this stage.
• The schedule continues until the kitten is approximately 16 to 20 weeks old.
• This timing ensures that each dose strengthens the kitten’s immune system as maternal immunity fades.

Booster Shots

After completing the initial vaccine cycle, follow-up boosters are essential for long-term protection.

• A booster shot is given one year after the final dose of the kitten series.
• After that, booster vaccines are repeated every one to three years based on the type of vaccine and the cat’s lifestyle.
• Indoor and outdoor cats both benefit from these boosters, as certain viruses can still find their way indoors.

Combination Vaccines and Timing

Many core diseases are addressed together through combination vaccines for convenience and efficiency.

• A commonly used combination vaccine protects against feline rhinotracheitis, calicivirus, and panleukopenia.
• This combo is administered as part of the routine series of vaccines throughout the kitten’s early months.
• Additional vaccines, such as those for feline leukemia and rabies, may also be included depending on risk.
• These two vaccines are often administered alongside the core set in the same schedule every three to four weeks until completion.

Kitten Vaccine Side Effects: What to Expect After Vaccinations for Kittens

Your kitten just had their shots—and while they're not exactly thrilled, a little post-vaccine funk is perfectly normal. Vaccinations stimulate the immune system, and the effects you notice are often signs that the protection is kicking in.

Sleepy, Sore, and Slightly Off

• After a vaccine series, a kitten may act more tired than usual or want extra naps.
• A tiny bump at the injection site or a brief wince when touched is common.
• Their appetite might dip slightly, but it typically rebounds within a day.

What’s Not Normal

• Keep an eye out for swelling in the face, sudden vomiting, or trouble breathing—these are red flags.
• Reactions like these are rare but serious, and they usually occur within hours of the vaccine being given.
• If anything feels off beyond the typical signs, don’t hesitate to call your vet.

Their Body Is Learning

• As maternal antibodies fade, the kitten will need different vaccinations to build its own immunity.
• The sleepy spells and small aches are signs that their immune system is hard at work.
• From feline herpes virus to feline leukemia, those vaccines are quietly building a shield.

Why Indoor Cats and Outdoor Cats Both Need Protection

Even if your cat lives exclusively indoors, vaccines are essential to safeguard them against serious and contagious diseases. Indoor cats can still be exposed to viruses and bacteria that travel on your clothing, shoes, or even through open windows and doors.

Hidden Risks Lurking Indoors

It’s easy to assume that indoor cats are safe from harm, but that’s only partially true. Viruses like feline herpes virus and feline calicivirus are airborne and highly contagious, meaning they can sneak into your home without warning. If your cat ever escapes outside, visits the groomer, or comes into contact with a new pet or human visitor, their risk of infection increases dramatically.

Outdoor Exposure Raises the Stakes

For outdoor cats, the danger multiplies. They’re more likely to encounter other cats and contaminated environments that expose them to feline leukemia virus, rabies, or feline panleukopenia. These diseases can be fatal or cause long-term illness. A complete vaccine series is the best defense, especially when exposure is frequent and unpredictable.

Immunity Matters for All Cats and Kittens

Vaccines stimulate the immune system to recognize and fight off infections, whether your cat lounges on windowsills or roams the backyard. Maternal antibodies may protect kittens temporarily, but this short-term immunity fades, and vaccines are needed to continue protection. Whether indoor or outdoor, cats and kittens need their vaccine schedule maintained to stay healthy throughout their lives.

Final Thoughts

Vaccinating your kitten is one of the most important steps you can take to ensure a healthy start in life. These vaccines help prevent serious illnesses that can be costly, contagious, and even fatal.

Starting the vaccine series early and staying consistent with booster shots strengthens your kitten’s immunity as maternal antibodies fade. Whether your cat lives indoors or ventures outside, protection from viruses and diseases is essential.

Understanding the vaccine schedule and what each shot covers makes it easier to care for your pet with confidence. Contact us today to book a visit and give your kitten the protection they need for a long and healthy life.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the recommended kitten vaccination schedule for new cat owners?

Vaccines are given in stages to protect your kitten while their immune system is still developing.

Initial shots: Start around 6 to 8 weeks old with core vaccines like FVRCP.

Booster doses: Repeated every 3–4 weeks until your kitten is about 16 weeks old.

Rabies vaccine: Usually given between 12 and 16 weeks, depending on local laws.

One-year booster: Helps solidify long-term protection after the initial series.

Ongoing schedule: Adult cats get boosters every 1–3 years based on risk and lifestyle.

Why is vaccinating your kitten important even if they stay indoors?

Even indoor kittens are at risk, since germs and viruses can sneak into your home in surprising ways.

Indirect exposure: You can carry viruses in on your hands, clothes, or shoes.

Open windows or doors: Bugs, stray animals, or airborne particles can still pose a threat.

Loss of maternal antibodies: Those fade fast, leaving kittens unprotected without vaccines.

Early protection: Vaccines prepare your kitten’s immune system before real exposure happens.

Serious consequences: Deadly illnesses like panleukopenia can still infect indoor-only pets.

How do vaccines for kittens differ from those for an adult cat?

Kittens need a more frequent schedule to build their immune defenses, while adult cats need less frequent updates.

Immune system development: Kittens need a series of shots to get strong immunity.

Booster timing: Adult cats typically need boosters once every 1–3 years.

Core vs. lifestyle vaccines: The type may stay the same, but frequency changes as your cat grows.

Personalized schedules: Adults get adjusted vaccine plans based on age, environment, and health.

Foundational vs. maintenance: Kitten vaccines build immunity from scratch, while adults maintain it.

At what age does a kitten need to be vaccinated, and how often?

Kittens follow a tight schedule starting at just a few weeks old to make sure they stay protected.

First shots: Begin at 6–8 weeks old.

Series of boosters: Repeated every 3–4 weeks until about 16 weeks of age.

Rabies vaccine: Usually given between 12 and 16 weeks.

One-year follow-up: Reinforces immunity from the kitten vaccine series.

Adult schedule: Boosters continue every 1–3 years to maintain protection. 

How much does the cost of kitten vaccines typically add to the overall cost of a new kitten?

Vaccine-related costs vary depending on the clinic, location, and services included:

Variable pricing: Vaccine packages and individual visits differ across vet practices.

Visit frequency: Several appointments are needed during the first few months.

Bundled services: Some clinics include vaccines with wellness exams or deworming.

Ongoing care: Adult boosters may be required less often, but still factor into annual care.

Preventive value: Investing in vaccines helps avoid future medical complications.