Complete Vaccination Schedules
Essential vaccination timelines for dogs and cats at every life stage
Why Vaccinations Matter
Vaccinations are crucial for protecting your pet from serious, often deadly diseases. They work by stimulating your pet's immune system to recognize and fight specific viruses and bacteria. Following the recommended vaccination schedule ensures your pet has the best protection throughout their life.
Disease Prevention
Protects against deadly viruses and bacteria
Legal Requirement
Rabies vaccine required by law in most areas
Public Health
Protects other pets and humans
Vaccination Timeline
Initial core vaccines for both puppies and kittens
Booster shots for core vaccines
Last round of core vaccines
First adult booster shots
Regular booster schedules
🐕Dog Vaccination Schedule
Core Vaccines (Essential)
DHPP (Distemper, Hepatitis, Parvovirus, Parainfluenza)
6-8 weeks, 10-12 weeks, 14-16 weeks, 12-16 months, then every 3 years
Critical - protects against deadly diseases
First vaccine at 6-8 weeks, boosters every 3-4 weeks until 16 weeks
Rabies
12-16 weeks, then 1 year, then every 3 years
Required by law in most areas
Timing may vary by state/local regulations
Non-Core Vaccines (Recommended)
Bordetella (Kennel Cough)
6-8 weeks, then annually
Recommended for social dogs
Especially important for dogs in daycare or boarding
Lyme Disease
12 weeks, then 2-4 weeks later, then annually
Regional - check with your vet
Important in areas with high tick populations
🐱Cat Vaccination Schedule
Core Vaccines (Essential)
FVRCP (Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis, Calicivirus, Panleukopenia)
6-8 weeks, 10-12 weeks, 14-16 weeks, 12-16 months, then every 3 years
Critical - protects against deadly diseases
Also called "feline distemper" vaccine
Rabies
12-16 weeks, then 1 year, then every 3 years
Required by law in most areas
Timing may vary by state/local regulations
Non-Core Vaccines (Recommended)
FeLV (Feline Leukemia)
8-9 weeks, then 3-4 weeks later, then annually
Recommended for outdoor cats
Especially important for cats that go outside
FIV (Feline Immunodeficiency Virus)
8 weeks, then 3-4 weeks later, then annually
Regional - check with your vet
Important for cats with outdoor access
Important Notes
Always consult with your veterinarian for the most appropriate vaccination schedule for your pet.
Vaccination requirements may vary by region, lifestyle, and individual pet health.
Keep detailed vaccination records and bring them to every veterinary visit.
Some pets may experience mild side effects after vaccination - this is normal.
Ready to Schedule Vaccinations?
Contact your veterinarian to discuss the best vaccination schedule for your pet.