Our dear friend may experience some illnesses throughout his life, but we can help him prevent them thanks to the VaccinesWhile they won't protect you 100%, they will protect you to a certain extent. 97-99%which is already much better than nothing. This level of protection, combined with good hygiene, deworming, and checkups, reduces in a way drastic the risk of serious problems.
However, if we have never lived with a feline before, we may be wondering when to start vaccinating the catThis is a very common question that we will answer below, with a suggested timeline. previous testsessential vaccines and practical recommendations.
Colostrum, the most important food for the kitten
When the cat is born it must do one very important thing: drink colostrum that his mother's body has been producing. This food it is rich in proteins and antibodiesThese are the ones who will protect the baby until 2-3 months of age. However, sometimes the mother rejects the baby or something happens to her and she cannot care for it, then The kitten's life is in serious dangerEspecially if the baby is two weeks old or younger. What should be done in these cases? Should the baby be vaccinated earlier?
No. If we have a kitten that has been orphaned, what we should do is keep it warm if it is winter, and give it a replacement milk for cats. which the veterinarian can sell us or which we can buy at a pet store. In addition, it's advisable to monitor their body temperatureStimulate urination and defecation after each feeding and visit the veterinarian to assess its condition. At this stage, maternal antibodies often interfere with the vaccine response; therefore, the first vaccination It is scheduled when the immune system is ready, usually from 8-9 weeks, except for special protocols determined by the veterinarian.
When to start vaccinating it?
El most common calendar is:
- 2-3 months: trivalent feline.
- 4 weeks later: reinforcement of the trivalent feline.
- Six months: rabies and leukemia.
- A from the year and annually: reinforcement of feline trivalent, rabies and leukemia.
As an expanded guideline based on current clinical practice, many protocols begin the first dose Between 8 and 9 weeks, they apply a second dose At 11-12 weeks, they complete with a third dose trivalent vaccine around 14-16 weeks and they vaccinate FeLV (feline leukemia) when appropriate, always after a pre-test to rule out infection. anti-rabies It is administered according to local regulations or if the cat travels or goes outdoors. Until the course is completed, the kitten It should not go outside or interact with other cats of unknown origin.
But if the cat is an adult and has never been vaccinated, you can do so without problems if you decide to vaccinate it. In these situations, the veterinarian may ask if you want it to receive all the vaccines at intervals, or only those that are mandatory, such as the rabies vaccine. In adults with no vaccination history, vaccination is usually performed. primary vaccination With two doses of trivalent vaccine 3-4 weeks apart, and if there is a risk, FeLV vaccine after testing, and rabies vaccine according to regulations. With these vaccines, your cat will be much better protected 
What vaccines does a cat need?
Feline trivalent vaccine (FVRCP)It protects against panleukopenia, rhinotracheitis (herpesvirus), and calicivirus. It is the essential basis for all cats, even indoor cats.
Feline leukemia (FeLV)Highly recommended if there is contact with other cats or access to the outdoors; always perform FeLV/FIV test before vaccinating.
RageThis is of great importance in areas where it is required or if traveling. In addition to protecting the cat, protects people facing a deadly zoonosis.
Care and preparation prior to vaccination
Before vaccinating, the veterinarian will confirm that the cat is clinically healthy And well hydrated, at a good temperature, and without signs of infection. It is recommended to deworm internally and externally, ideally two weeks beforesince parasites can weaken the immune response. In kittens from the street or with contact with other felines, testing is recommended. FeLV and FIV before certain vaccinations. If there are other cats in the house, the new cat must remain in a safe environment. isolated until contagious diseases are ruled out.
Side effects and care after vaccination
Mild and transient reactions may occur: mild and transient reactions: fatiguelow-grade fever, local discomfort or slight swelling, and mild loss of appetiteProvide a calm environment, fresh water, and observe its progress. Consult your doctor if you notice difficulty breathing. extensive swellingpersistent vomiting or diarrhea, or high fever that does not subside within 24 hours.
Calendar according to lifestyle and travel
Indoor cats usually follow basic guidelines, but they still need trivalent and, in many cases, periodic boosters. Those that go outdoors or live with multiple cats require stricter vaccination schedules and a vaccine. FeLVIf you are traveling or local regulations require it, add rage And make sure your identification and documentation are in order. The veterinarian will adapt the plan to individual risk and local outbreaks.
Indicative costs and planning
Prices vary by clinic and area. As a reference, the first year can range between 80-150 € depending on the number of doses; the trivalent vaccine usually costs per dose 30-60 €That of FeLV 25-50 € (with a preliminary indicative test of €40-60) and the Rabies vaccine €20-40Evaluate preventative plans or pet insurance to prevention bonds.
FAQs
When is the first vaccine given? Usually starting from 8-9 weeks, followed by reinforcements every 3-4 weeks until the series is completed.
What if I'm late? The veterinarian will decide if one is enough. reinforcement Or should we restart the series?
Can an older cat be vaccinated? Yes; the edad It is not a barrier if the person is healthy. An adapted primary vaccination schedule is prescribed.
Does an indoor cat need vaccinations? Yes, because pathogens can enter the home in clothing or footwearor through visits.
With a personalized vaccination plan, up-to-date deworming, tests when appropriate, and regular check-ups, your cat will be healthy. much more protected facing serious illnesses throughout their lives.
