What Vaccinations Does My Pet Need, And When?

The specific vaccinations your pet needs, and when, depend on their species, age, lifestyle, and regional health risks. Below is a general guide for dogs and cats:

For Dogs:

Core Vaccines (recommended for all dogs)

  1. DHPP (Distemper, Hepatitis, Parvovirus, Parainfluenza):
    • Puppies: Start around 6–8 weeks, with boosters every 3–4 weeks until 16 weeks.
    • Adults: Booster 1 year after the last puppy shot, then every 3 years.
  2. Rabies:
    • Puppies: Given at 12–16 weeks.
    • Adults: Booster 1 year later, then typically every 1–3 years depending on local laws.

Non-Core Vaccines (recommended based on lifestyle or location)

  1. Bordetella (Kennel Cough):
    • Given to dogs that frequent kennels, dog parks, or groomers.
    • Puppies: Can be given as early as 8 weeks.
    • Adults: Annual booster or as required by boarding facilities.
  2. Leptospirosis:
    • Puppies: Often combined with DHPP, starting around 12 weeks.
    • Adults: Annual booster.
  3. Lyme Disease:
    • Puppies: Can be given as early as 12 weeks in high-risk areas.
    • Adults: Annual booster if needed based on exposure to ticks.
  4. Canine Influenza:
    • Recommended for dogs in high-contact areas.
    • Puppies: Can start as early as 6–8 weeks.
    • Adults: Annual booster.

For Cats:

Core Vaccines (recommended for all cats)

  1. FVRCP (Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis, Calicivirus, Panleukopenia):
    • Kittens: Start around 6–8 weeks, with boosters every 3–4 weeks until 16 weeks.
    • Adults: Booster 1 year after the last kitten shot, then every 3 years.
  2. Rabies:
    • Kittens: Usually given at 12–16 weeks.
    • Adults: Booster 1 year later, then every 1–3 years depending on local regulations.

Non-Core Vaccines (recommended based on lifestyle or location)

  1. Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV):
    • Kittens: Recommended for outdoor or at-risk cats, starting at 8 weeks.
    • Adults: Annual booster if your cat goes outside or is exposed to other cats.

Vaccination Schedule Summary:

  • Puppies and Kittens: Start vaccines at 6–8 weeks, with boosters every 3–4 weeks until around 16 weeks.
  • Adults: After the initial booster a year later, core vaccines are typically needed every 1–3 years, depending on the specific vaccine and your vet’s recommendations.

Consult your vet to tailor a vaccine schedule to your pet’s needs, especially if they travel or interact with other animals frequently.