Vaccines for Kittens & Cats

Nothing is more exciting than getting a new kitten – however, there are also many responsibilities that come with it! As a pet owner, we want to ensure we give them all the tools to live long, stay strong, and experience maximum health. That's why it's important to stay up-to-date with their vaccine schedules. To book an appointment today, call us at 204-728-0033.

How do vaccines work?

Vaccines administer a very low dose of a pathogen to a pet so their immune system can “learn” to fight it. When a virus or bacteria enters the animal's body for the first time, they will not possess immunity. Introducing the disease prompts their system to manufacture antibodies to help fight it. Those antibodies then live in their bloodstream from then on, so should they encounter that pathogen in real life, full-strength, they will already have the tools to fight it.

What types of vaccines would my kitten or cat need?

Vaccines fall into two main categories: core vaccines and non-core vaccines. Core vaccines include rabies, feline leukemia virus, feline herpesvirus, feline calicivirus, and feline panleukopenia virus. Non-core vaccines include chlamydia felis, bordetella bronchiseptica, and FeLV. The core vaccines are often mandatory unless there is a predisposing health condition that affects their ability to tolerate vaccines. It is generally advised to consult your veterinarian to determine which vaccines your feline companion would require.

When should my kitten be vaccinated?

In order to be protected, immunizations must be given as a series of 3 injections at prescribed intervals during the kitten stages: the first being between 6-8 weeks of age, then at 12 and 16 weeks of age. The core vaccinations will vaccinate them against distemper (panleukopenia), feline viral rhinotracheitis (feline herpes virus 1), calicivirus, and rabies. Rabies vaccine will be given at a later time around 16 weeks of age. Depending on your kitten's lifestyle, non-core vaccines may not be mandatory, so it is best to discuss with your veterinarian during the initial visit. After the series, adult cats will be revaccinated every 1-3 years based on their lifestyle and risk factors.