Your pet's health is a top priority and vaccinations play a crucial role in that. Just like people, pets need vaccinations to protect them from various diseases that can be life-threatening. Knowing what vaccinations your pet needs and when they need them will help you provide them with the best care possible.
Why vaccinations are important
Vaccinations are essential to prevent infectious diseases in pets. They work by stimulating the immune system to recognize and fight specific pathogens, such as viruses and bacteria. This not only helps protect individual pets, but also contributes to the overall health of the pet population by preventing the spread of disease.
Core Vaccines vs. Non-Core Vaccines
Pet vaccines are divided into core vaccines and non-core vaccines:
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Core vaccines: These are essential for all pets because the diseases they prevent are serious and the risk of infection is widespread. Core vaccines for dogs include rabies, parvovirus, distemper and hepatitis. Core vaccines for cats include rabies, feline panleukopenia (distemper), feline calicivirus and feline herpesvirus type I (rhinotracheitis).
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Non-basic vaccines: These are recommended based on the pet's lifestyle, geographic location, and risk of exposure. Non-basic vaccines for dogs may include those against Bordetella bronchiseptica (kennel cough), Lyme disease, and leptospirosis. Non-basic vaccines for cats may include those against feline leukemia virus (FeLV) and Bordetella.
Vaccination schedule for dogs
Puppies
- 6-8 weeks: distemper, parvovirus (often in combination as DHP or DHPP, which includes hepatitis and parainfluenza)
- 10-12 weeks: DHPP, leptospirosis, Bordetella
- 14-16 weeks: DHPP, rabies
- 12-16 months: Booster for DHPP, Rabies
Adult dogs
- Every 1-3 years: DHPP, rabies (depending on local regulations and veterinarian's recommendation)
- Annually: Leptospirosis, Bordetella (if at risk)
Vaccination schedule for cats
kitten
- 6-8 weeks: FVRCP (Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis, Calicivirus, Panleukopenia)
- 10-12 weeks: FVRCP
- 14-16 weeks: FVRCP, rabies
- 12-16 months: Refresher for FVRCP, Rabies
Adult cats
- Every 1-3 years: FVRCP, rabies (depending on local regulations and veterinarian recommendation)
- Annually: FeLV (if at risk)
Frequently asked questions about pet vaccinations
Are vaccinations safe?
Yes, vaccinations are generally safe. As with any medical procedure, they can cause side effects, but these are usually mild, such as a slight fever or soreness at the injection site. Serious side effects are rare. Always discuss any concerns with your veterinarian.
Can pets skip vaccinations?
Pets also need to be vaccinated. They can be exposed to diseases through open windows, other pets, or visits to the vet. For example, a rabies vaccination is often required by law, regardless of whether a pet is indoors or outdoors.
What happens if I miss a vaccination?
If you miss a vaccination, contact your veterinarian who can create a catch-up plan to ensure your pet remains protected. It is important to stick to the vaccination schedule to maintain immunity.
