Cat Vaccines 101: What They Are, What Your Cat Needs, and Why They Matter for a Lifetime of Health

If you’re new to cat ownership, you’ve probably searched online for guidance about how to care for your new companion. At Whittington Veterinary Clinic, we know there’s a lot of information out there—and not all of it is accurate. That’s why we’ve created this trusted, veterinarian-approved resource to answer the most common questions about feline vaccinations.

Our goal is simple: to help your cat live a long, healthy life—starting with the right protection.

Why Are Cat Vaccines So Important?

Vaccines are a vital part of preventive care. They prepare your cat’s immune system to recognize and fight off potentially life-threatening diseases—some of which can also be spread to people.

Because you can’t predict what your cat may be exposed to in their lifetime, vaccinations help build a protective shield before exposure happens.

Some diseases, like feline leukemia or panleukopenia, are extremely contagious and often fatal. Others, like rabies, are not only deadly but also legally required to vaccinate against in Louisiana.

What Vaccines Do Cats Need?

We follow the most current guidelines from the American Association of Feline Practitioners (AAFP) and customize vaccine plans to your cat’s age, health, and lifestyle.

Core Vaccines (Recommended for All Cats):

  • Rabies – Required by law in Louisiana. Protects against a deadly virus that affects all mammals, including people.
  • FVRCP – A 3-in-1 vaccine protecting against:
    • Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis (herpesvirus)
    • Calicivirus
    • Panleukopenia (feline distemper)

Non-Core Vaccines (Based on Risk):

  • Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV) – Recommended for all kittens and any cat with outdoor access or living in a multi-cat household.
  • Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV) – Considered for high-risk, outdoor, or aggressive cats.

Vaccination Schedule by Life Stage

Kittens

First vaccination as early as 6 to 8 weeks of age. Kittens need booster vaccines every 3 to 4 weeks until they’re around 16 weeks old, with their required Rabies vaccination. Boosters are essential to build a lasting immunity, so we will tailor your kittens needs by the age we meet them to ensure their complete protection.

Adult Cats

  • Annual or triennial boosters depending on previous vaccination history and risk.
  • If your adult cat’s history is unknown, we’ll recommend a full series to ensure protection.

Senior Cats

Even older cats need vaccine protection. While they may have built some immunity, aging weakens the immune system. We’ll tailor a plan based on your cat’s current health, exposure risk, and prior vaccination status.

Are Vaccines Safe for Cats?

Yes. Vaccines are carefully developed and regulated for safety. Most cats tolerate them very well.

Mild, short-term side effects such as tiredness or slight soreness at the injection site may occur. Rarely, cats can have allergic reactions, including:

  • Facial swelling
  • Vomiting or diarrhea
  • Hives or itching

If you notice any of these symptoms, call us right away at (337) 893-8522. We’ll adjust future vaccines if necessary.

Indoor Cats Need Vaccines Too

Even if your cat never sets foot outside, they still need protection. Why?

  • Rabies vaccination is legally required, regardless of lifestyle.
  • Bats or rodents can enter homes and expose indoor cats to disease.
  • Cats can slip out unexpectedly or come into contact with other pets.
  • You may move to a new home or introduce a new animal later—situations where exposure risk changes.

Vaccinating kittens—even if you plan to keep them indoors—builds a strong foundation that can’t be replaced later.

Why Boosters Matter

Vaccines work by training your cat’s immune system to recognize a disease and fight it. But that immunity fades over time. Boosters remind the body to stay on alert.

Missing boosters may leave your cat vulnerable and require restarting the vaccine series.

It’s also important not to give vaccines too close together (less than 3 weeks) or too far apart (more than 6 weeks), as this affects how well immunity develops.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can vaccines cause serious complications?
A: Serious reactions are rare. The benefits far outweigh the risks, especially considering the severity of the diseases they prevent.

Q: What about injection-site sarcomas?
A: These are extremely rare. We follow best practices for injection sites and use the safest vaccines available.

Q: Can I delay vaccines until my cat is older?
A: Delaying vaccination leaves your kitten unprotected when they’re most vulnerable. Early protection is key to long-term health.

Let’s Get Your Cat on the Right Track

Whether you’re raising a kitten or managing care for a senior cat, we’re here to help guide you every step of the way. Please call us at (337) 893-8522 to schedule your cat’s exam and personalized vaccination plan.