When adopting a new puppy or kitten, your first order of business should always be getting your pet vaccinated. Puppies and kittens are born with weak immune systems that put them at risk of developing a range of infections and life threatening diseases. Some kittens are even born with certain infections, like hookworms.
When kittens and puppies are not adequately vaccinated, they are at a huge risk of catching an infections that could be easily prevented with proper vaccinations. Kittens and puppies inherit some antibodies and immunity from diseases from their mother’s milk. However, this immunity only lasts about 16 weeks, which is why it’s important for your pet to begin their vaccination cycle early and carry it through their first 16 weeks of age. The reason you shouldn’t wait until they reach 16 weeks is that it isn’t always known how much maternal immunity your pet’s will inherit from their mother.
How Frequently Do Pets Need Vaccines?
Most vets will give your pet a cycle of shots every 2-3 weeks, making sure that they have the appropriate amount of protective antibodies against common illnesses and diseases. The first cycle of vaccines given to puppies and kittens to defend against the most common illnesses are called “Core Vaccines”.
During your puppy or kitten’s first vet visits for vaccinations, they will need to be thoroughly examined for other possible issues. Your initial visits are also a good time for us to discuss proper nutrition, training, and other breed and pet specific questions.
What Are Included in Core Vaccines?
The acronym for core vaccines for puppies is “DAPP,” standing for Canine Distemper, Canine Infectious Hepatitis or Adenovirus, Canine Parvovirus and Canine Parainfluenza, as well as the standard Rabies shot.
The acronym for core vaccines for kittens is “FVRCP,” standing for Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis or herpes virus, Feline Calcivirus, and Panleukopenia, as well as Rabies. Your pet should start their first round of boosters at around 6-8 weeks up until they reach 16 weeks. The first Rabies vaccine is given around 14-16 weeks, so it’s a good idea to keep exposure to other animals at a minimal until this age.
Other Important Vaccines for Cats and Dogs
Other common, non-mandatory vaccines for Puppies and Kitten are called “non-Core Vaccines.” Non-core vaccines are mostly elective; however, some environments might require these vaccines more than others.
For instance, puppies living in certain states with an abundance of Lyme disease and Leptospirosis will require these vaccines. When living on the east coast, these vaccines are essential to the safety and well-being of your pet.
The non-core vaccine for kittens protects against feline leukemia. This vaccine is recommended for outdoor cats, before they reach a year old. If you have a strictly indoor cat, you can probably get away without this booster.
Why Do Indoor Cats Need Vaccinations?
You might be wondering why your indoor kitten needs vaccinations, if it is never allowed outside exposure to other disease. Indoor cats still need vaccinations, because even though they are strictly indoor, they can still become exposed to rabies.
Just because your pet isn’t exposed to outdoor animals, doesn’t mean that outdoor animals can’t make their way into your house. Bats and other infection carrying animals often make their way into basements and other areas of older homes. Not to mention, there is a strong possibility that your house cat will slip outside from time to time, especially in households with children.
Rabies is a deadly infection for pets and humans, and it’s morally important to protect you dog and cat from possible exposure by keeping them up-to-date on their vaccines. In the unfortunate event that your cat isn’t updated on their Rabies vaccines and exposure occurs, some states will fine you for having an unvaccinated animal.
Be a responsible pet owner by making sure your pet’s vaccinations are always up-to-date. If you’re worried about the cost of vaccinations, find a veterinarian or pet health center that will work with you on prices.