Vaccinations Recommended for Most Cats

In 2007, certain vaccine protocols were recommended by the American Association of Feline Practitioners, as the result of a task force established because of concerns over VAS (Vaccine-Associated Sarcoma.) These protocols are shown as "Core" and "Non-Core" vaccines.

How do Vaccines Protect my Cat?

Vaccines do not inject a miraculous shield against disease. They work by fooling the body into thinking it is threatened, thereby stimulating the body's own defense system into producing antibodies to fight off the invader.

Core Vaccines

Feline Panleukopenia Virus Vaccine (also called "Feline Distemper")

Panleukopenia is caused by a feline parvovirus (FPV), and is particularly vicious, capable of being spread rapidly, with a high mortality rate, especially in younger cats.

Feline Calicivirus

This virus, along with the Feline Herpes virus, causes the majority of upper respiratory infections URIs in cats, and can be spread by "carrier" cats for years.

Rhinotracheitis AKA Feline Herpes Virus

Rhinotracheitis has serious potential, especially in kittens. It has been estimated that 70% of kittens with severe Rhinotracheitis infections will die, and it can also cause permanent neurological damage to kittens.

NOTE: These vaccines will not provide total clinical immunity to the diseases, but will minimize the severity of upper respiratory infection.

Rabies Vaccine


Rabies vaccinations are required by law in most states in the U.S. The interval depends on the jurisdiction, and can be from one to three years. Although the incidence of rabies in cats is relatively low, even indoor cats are at risk, as bats do enter homes. Rabies is always fatal in an unprotected cat, and both the VAFSTF and the AAFP highly recommend vaccination of all cats for this zoonotic disease.

The Rabies vaccine is one which has been implicated as causing vaccine-associated sarcoma (VAS), and it is suspected that the adjuvant (carrier) used may be the culprit associated with this vaccine. The AAFP lists three different versions of the Rabies vaccine.

Exceptions to the Core Vaccines:

As always, your veterinarian knows your cat best, and should be your source of information. However, Some veterinarians advise that in certain situation, vaccines should be withheld or delayed:
1. Cats in Very Poor Health
2. Senior Cats
3. Cats With Compromised Immune Systems

As always, your veterinarian knows your cat best, and should be your source of advice

Cats and kittens require some important vaccinations to keep your animal healthy. Learn about the vaccinations you'll need to get for your new kitten with tips from a veterinarian in this free pet care video.

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