Core Cat Vaccines at a Glance
Cat Vaccine Schedule
| Vaccine | Protects Against | Schedule | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| FVRCP | Panleukopenia, Calicivirus, Rhinotracheitis | Kitten series + boosters | $20-40 |
| Rabies | Rabies virus (zoonotic) | Single dose at 12-16 wks | $15-30 |
| FeLV (Non-Core) | Feline Leukemia | Risk-based | $25-45 |
Vaccination Checklist
| Start vaccines at 6-8 weeks of age | |
| Complete full kitten series (3 rounds) | |
| Keep annual wellness appointments | |
| Skip rabies vaccination (legally required) | |
| Assume indoor cats need no vaccines | |
| Delay boosters beyond recommended interval |
Core Cat Vaccines: The Feline Vaccination Guide
Many people underestimate cat vaccination — especially for indoor cats. Panleukopenia (feline distemper) can survive in the environment for years and enter on shoes or clothing. Rabies is legally required for cats in many US states and recommended universally because it is a public health concern as well as an animal health concern. Understanding the vaccine landscape helps you make informed decisions with your vet. Your veterinarian will tailor the vaccine protocol to your individual cat's age, lifestyle, and health status.
| Vaccine | Category | Protects Against |
|---|---|---|
| FVRCP | Core | Herpesvirus, Calicivirus, Panleukopenia |
| Rabies | Core (legally required many areas) | Rabies |
| FeLV | Core for kittens/outdoor cats | Feline Leukemia Virus |
| FIV | Non-core (rarely used) | Feline Immunodeficiency Virus |
| Bordetella (cats) | Non-core (shelter/boarding cats) | Bacterial respiratory infection |
Vaccine-Associated Sarcoma: What Owners Should Know
Cats have a rare but serious risk of injection-site sarcoma (FISS — Feline Injection Site Sarcoma), a malignant tumor at vaccine injection sites. The risk is estimated at 1–4 cases per 10,000 vaccines administered. To facilitate detection, current AAFP guidelines recommend administering vaccines in specific, defined sites (left leg for FVRCP, right leg for rabies, right leg or right lateral chest wall for FeLV) so any lump can be monitored. Any lump at a vaccine site that persists longer than 3 weeks, is larger than 2 cm, or is growing should be biopsied. This is a monitor-don't-panic situation, not a reason to avoid vaccines.
The Kitten Series
Kittens typically receive FVRCP vaccines at 8, 12, and 16 weeks, with rabies at 12–16 weeks depending on the product. FeLV is recommended at 8 and 12 weeks for kittens with any outdoor or multi-cat household exposure. A booster 1 year after the kitten series, then every 3 years for core vaccines in adult cats (per AAFP 2020 guidelines) — though some protocols vary.
Frequently Asked Questions
What vaccines do indoor cats need?
Even indoor-only cats should receive the FVRCP (core) vaccine and rabies. Indoor cats can encounter wildlife, escape, or be exposed through new animals brought home. No cat is truly zero-risk.
What is the FVRCP vaccine?
FVRCP protects against three diseases: Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis (herpesvirus), Calicivirus, and Panleukopenia (feline distemper). It is considered core for all cats. Panleukopenia is highly contagious and often fatal, particularly in kittens.
Does my cat need the FeLV vaccine?
The FeLV vaccine is considered core for kittens and outdoor or multi-cat household cats. For adult indoor-only cats with no exposure risk, it is non-core. Discuss your cat's specific risk factors with your veterinarian.