What vaccines do cats need?

All cats need core vaccines: FVRCP (feline viral rhinotracheitis, calicivirus, panleukopenia) and rabies. Lifestyle vaccines include FeLV (feline leukemia virus), FIV, Bordetella, and Chlamydophila. Your veterinarian determines which lifestyle vaccines are appropriate based on your cat's risk factors.

How often do cats need vaccinations?

Kittens receive a series of FVRCP vaccines every 3–4 weeks from 6–16 weeks of age. Adult cats get boosters 1 year after the initial series, then every 3 years for FVRCP and as required by law for rabies (1 or 3 years depending on the vaccine and local regulations).

Are vaccines safe for cats?

Vaccines are considered very safe. Common mild side effects include temporary soreness at the injection site, mild lethargy, and reduced appetite for 24–48 hours. Serious adverse reactions are rare but can include injection-site sarcomas (extremely rare with modern adjuvant-free vaccines).

Do indoor cats need vaccines?

Yes. Indoor cats still need core vaccines. Rabies is required by law in most jurisdictions regardless of lifestyle. FVRCP protects against viruses that can be brought in on shoes, clothing, or other pets. The AAFP recommends core vaccines for all cats.

What is the FVRCP vaccine?

FVRCP is a combination vaccine protecting against three serious feline diseases: Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis (herpesvirus), Calicivirus, and Panleukopenia (feline distemper). It's considered core by the AAFP and AAHA because these diseases are highly contagious and potentially fatal.

Cat Vaccinations: Core & Lifestyle Vaccine Guide

The American Association of Feline Practitioners (AAFP) recommends FVRCP and rabies as core vaccines for all cats, regardless of lifestyle — including indoor-only cats. Lifestyle vaccines such as FeLV (feline leukemia virus) are recommended based on individual risk assessment. Vaccination protocols have evolved significantly, with most adult boosters now given every 3 years instead of annually.

What Are Core vs. Lifestyle Vaccines?

Vaccine	Type	Protects Against	Schedule
FVRCP	Core	Herpesvirus, calicivirus, panleukopenia	Every 3 years (adult)
Rabies	Core	Rabies virus	1 or 3 years (by law)
FeLV	Lifestyle	Feline leukemia virus	Risk-based
Bordetella	Lifestyle	Upper respiratory infection	Annually if at risk