Cat Vaccination Schedule: Complete Guide by Age
Keeping your cat's vaccinations up to date is one of the simplest and most effective ways to protect their health. This complete cat vaccination schedule covers every core and non-core vaccine, the right age for each dose, and how to stay on top of boosters with a pet tracker like PetNoter.
Cat & Kitten Vaccine Schedule at a Glance
| Age | Core Vaccines | Non-Core (Lifestyle) |
|---|---|---|
| 6–8 weeks | FVRCP (1st dose) | — |
| 10–12 weeks | FVRCP (2nd dose) | FeLV (1st dose — all kittens) |
| 14–16 weeks | FVRCP (3rd dose), Rabies (1st) | FeLV (2nd dose) |
| 12–16 months | FVRCP booster, Rabies booster | FeLV booster (at-risk cats) |
| Every 1–3 years | FVRCP booster, Rabies booster (per local law) | FeLV annual (outdoor/at-risk cats) |
Core Cat Vaccines (Required for All Cats)
Core vaccines are recommended for every cat regardless of lifestyle. They protect against diseases that are highly contagious, life-threatening, or pose a public health risk.
FVRCP (Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis, Calicivirus, Panleukopenia)
The FVRCP combination vaccine — often called the "feline distemper" shot — is the cornerstone of cat vaccination. It protects against three of the most common infectious diseases in cats.
- Rhinotracheitis (FHV-1 / Herpesvirus): Causes severe upper respiratory infections and eye disease; a leading cause of chronic respiratory problems in cats.
- Calicivirus (FCV): Causes oral ulcers, respiratory disease, and occasionally a severe systemic illness. Multiple strains exist.
- Panleukopenia (FPV): Highly contagious and often fatal viral disease that attacks rapidly dividing cells, especially in the GI tract and bone marrow.
Schedule: 6–8 weeks, 10–12 weeks, 14–16 weeks, booster at 12–16 months, then every 1–3 years.
Rabies
Rabies is a fatal viral disease affecting the nervous system and is transmissible to humans. It is legally required for cats in many US states and countries. Even indoor cats should be vaccinated — an escaped cat or a bat entering your home poses a real risk.
Schedule: First dose at 14–16 weeks, booster at 12–16 months, then every 1 or 3 years depending on vaccine type and local law.
Non-Core Cat Vaccines (Lifestyle-Based)
Non-core vaccines are given based on your cat's individual risk factors — outdoor access, contact with other cats, and your geographic location.
FeLV (Feline Leukemia Virus)
FeLV is one of the most common infectious diseases in cats and is spread through close contact (mutual grooming, shared food bowls, bite wounds). It suppresses the immune system and can cause lymphoma. The AAFP recommends this vaccine for all kittens under 1 year and for at-risk adults.
Schedule: Two doses 3–4 weeks apart starting at 8–10 weeks, then annual boosters for outdoor or at-risk cats.
Chlamydia felis
A bacterium that causes conjunctivitis (eye inflammation) and upper respiratory disease. Recommended for cats in multi-cat households with a history of chlamydial disease.
Schedule: Often included in multi-component vaccines; discuss with your vet if appropriate for your cat's situation.
Bordetella bronchiseptica
A bacterium that contributes to upper respiratory infections, particularly in young or immunocompromised cats in shelters or multi-cat environments.
Schedule: Intranasal vaccine available from 4 weeks of age; annual boosters for cats with ongoing exposure.
Indoor Cat vs. Outdoor Cat: Does It Change the Schedule?
Indoor-Only Cats
- ✓ FVRCP — required (viruses can enter on clothing/shoes)
- ✓ Rabies — required by law in most areas
- ✗ FeLV — optional for adults; discuss with vet
- ✗ Bordetella — only if boarding frequently
Outdoor / Multi-Cat Household
- ✓ FVRCP — required
- ✓ Rabies — required
- ✓ FeLV — strongly recommended
- ✓ Bordetella — recommended
What to Expect After Your Cat's Vaccination
Mild reactions are normal and usually resolve within 24–48 hours:
- Lethargy or reduced activity
- Soreness or small lump at the injection site
- Reduced appetite
- Sneezing (especially after intranasal vaccines)
Contact your vet immediately if your cat shows facial swelling, persistent vomiting or diarrhea, difficulty breathing, or collapse after vaccination. Note also that injection-site sarcoma — a rare tumor — is worth discussing with your vet, who will vaccinate in a specific site and monitor it at each annual exam.
Track Your Cat's Vaccines with PetNoter
Log every vaccination, set automatic reminders for boosters, and store your vet records digitally — all in one free app. Available for Android and iOS.
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I start vaccinating my kitten?
Start at 6–8 weeks of age. Maternal antibodies from the mother begin to decline around this time. Early vaccination ensures your kitten is protected before these passive antibodies wear off completely.
How many shots does a kitten need?
Most kittens need 3 rounds of the FVRCP combination vaccine (at 6–8, 10–12, and 14–16 weeks), plus a rabies vaccine at 14–16 weeks. Boosters are given at 12–16 months, then every 1–3 years depending on the vaccine and your vet's recommendation.
Does an indoor cat need vaccinations?
Yes. Even strictly indoor cats need core vaccines (FVRCP and rabies). Viruses can enter your home on clothing, shoes, or through windows. Rabies vaccination is also legally required for cats in many US states and countries regardless of indoor/outdoor status.
What is the FVRCP vaccine for cats?
FVRCP stands for Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis (herpesvirus), Calicivirus, and Panleukopenia. It is the core combination vaccine given to all cats — sometimes called the 'feline distemper' shot. It protects against three of the most common and serious feline infectious diseases.
Does my cat need the FeLV vaccine?
The FeLV (Feline Leukemia Virus) vaccine is recommended for all kittens under 1 year and for adult cats with outdoor access or exposure to other cats. It's considered non-core for adult indoor-only cats with no exposure risk. Ask your vet.
What is the best app to track my cat's vaccinations?
PetNoter is a free pet care app for Android and iOS that lets you log every vaccination, set reminders for upcoming booster shots, and store your vet records in one place — so you never miss a dose for your cat.