When kittens are born, they become immune to some diseases after they suckle the first milk or ‘colostrum’ from their mothers. This protection lasts only 8-10 weeks. Vaccines are started for kittens at 6-8 weeks of age, so they can develop their own protection against disease, as the ‘maternal’ protection wears out. A second vaccination at 12 weeks and a third at 16 weeks, ensure kittens have as complete protection as possible.
When do kittens get their first shots?
Kittens get their first vaccine between 6-8 weeks.
How often do my kittens need a vaccine?
Kittens will come back for 3 sets of boosters, all spaced out by 3-4 weeks in between.
Does my kitten need only core vaccines?
The standard vaccines for an indoor cat are core and rabies, if your cat will go outside, then they will also need a feline leukemia virus vaccine.
Are there any risk associated with vaccines?
With any vaccine there is a chance of a reaction. It is important to discuss vaccine reactions with any patient that is receiving a vaccine for the first time.
