Kitten Vaccination Schedule: A Complete Guide for Owners
Vaccination is one of the fundamental pillars of feline preventive medicine. In this complete guide, you will understand which vaccines kittens need, when to start the protocol, the correct intervals, and why following the vaccination schedule is essential to ensure your cat’s health and longevity.
The first months of a kitten’s life are decisive for the development of its immune system. At this stage, the body is still immature and highly vulnerable to serious infectious diseases, many of which can be fatal.
Proper vaccination, started at the right time and following a well defined schedule, is the safest and most effective way to protect the kitten and support the overall health of the feline population.
Why vaccinate kittens?
Vaccination stimulates the immune system to recognize disease-causing agents and fight them effectively before they cause severe infections.
Benefits of vaccination:
- Prevention of highly contagious diseases
- Reduced kitten mortality
- Lower risk of transmission to other cats
- Savings on future treatments
- Contribution to public health (in the case of rabies)
Main diseases prevented by feline vaccines
The most important vaccines protect against common and dangerous diseases such as:
- Feline panleukopenia
- Feline viral rhinotracheitis
- Feline calicivirus disease
- Chlamydiosis (in specific situations)
- Feline leukemia (FeLV)
- Rabies
Essential vaccines for kittens
Feline Triple Vaccine (V3)
Protects against:
- Panleukopenia
- Rhinotracheitis
- Calicivirus
Quadrivalent Vaccine (V4)
Includes V3 protection + chlamydiosis.
Quintivalent Vaccine (V5)
Includes V4 protection + feline leukemia (FeLV).
Rabies Vaccine
Legally required in many countries and essential for public health.
Care before and after vaccination
- Perform deworming before the first dose
- Avoid bathing and excessive stress on vaccination day
- Observe the kitten for 24–48 hours after the shot
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Conclusion
A proper vaccination schedule for kittens is essential to ensure a long, healthy, and protected life. Following your veterinarian’s guidance and keeping boosters up to date is an act of care, responsibility, and love for your cat.