The Pet Vaccination Schedule Explained

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Vaccinations are a crucial part of your pet’s healthcare, providing protection against serious diseases throughout their life. Understanding the vaccination schedule for dogs and cats helps ensure your furry friend remains protected at every stage.

This guide breaks down the timeline for vaccinations, from those vital early shots as puppies or kittens to boosters needed during adulthood.

Puppy and Kitten Vaccinations

The vaccination journey begins when your pet is just a few weeks old. Puppies and kittens are particularly vulnerable to disease, so early immunisations are essential.

Maternal Immunity

In cats and dogs, maternal immunity comes from antibodies passed from the mother to her puppies or kittens through the placenta (in small amounts) and more significantly through colostrum, the first milk.

These antibodies provide temporary protection against diseases but can also interfere with vaccines, which is why vaccination schedules are carefully timed to ensure the maternal antibodies have waned enough for the vaccines to be effective

Puppies

6-8 Weeks: First vaccination, typically covering distemper, parvovirus, infectious hepatitis, and leptospirosis (DHPL).
10-12 Weeks: Second vaccination, including leptospirosis and possibly kennel cough (if required).
16 Weeks+: third vaccination in the primary course,
12 weeks+ Rabies vaccination for pets travelling abroad. Usually given separately to other vaccination

Kittens

8-9 Weeks: First vaccination, protecting against feline herpesvirus, calicivirus, and feline panleukopenia. Timing dependent on licence for the vaccination brand.
11-12 Weeks: Second vaccination, and feline leukaemia (FeLV) for outdoor cats.
12 weeks+ Rabies vaccination for pets travelling abroad. Usually given separately to other vaccination

It’s important to limit your puppy’s or kitten’s exposure to other animals until their vaccinations are complete to reduce the risk of infection.

Adult Booster Vaccinations

Vaccines provide long-term immunity, but regular boosters are needed to maintain protection. Your vet will advise on the schedule for your pet based on their lifestyle and risk factors.

Dogs

Annually: Leptospirosis and kennel cough (if applicable).
Every 3 Years: Distemper, Hepatitis and Parvovirus booster.
Rabies: Required every 1-3 years for pets travelling abroad, depending on vaccine type and regulations.

Cats

Annually: Feline herpesvirus, calicivirus and panleukopenia boosters.
Every 3 Years: Feline Leukaemia Virus (FeLV)
Rabies: Required every 1-3 years for pets travelling abroad, depending on vaccine type and regulations.

Senior Pets

As pets age, their immune systems may weaken, making vaccinations as important as ever. Your vet may adjust the vaccination schedule for senior pets to reflect their overall health and lifestyle.

Customised Vaccination Plans

Every pet is unique, and their vaccination needs may vary. Factors that influence your pet’s vaccination plan include:

Lifestyle: Pets that frequently socialise or travel require additional vaccines.
Environment: Rural pets may face risks like leptospirosis, while urban pets may need protection against kennel cough.
Health Conditions: Pets with medical issues may need modified vaccination schedules.

Your vet will work with you to create a tailored plan that keeps your pet protected.

What to Expect at Vaccination Appointments

Vaccination appointments are more than just a quick jab. Your vet will:

Perform a general health check to ensure your pet is fit for vaccination. This is often also an opportunity to discuss and review your pet’s parasite control plan.
Discuss your pet’s lifestyle and any potential risk factors.
Answer any questions you may have about the vaccines and your pet’s health.

Staying on Schedule for a Healthy Life

Keeping up with your pet’s vaccination schedule is one of the best ways to ensure their long-term health and happiness. Regular boosters protect your pet and help prevent the spread of diseases within the community.

If you’re unsure about your pet’s vaccination status or need to book an appointment, contact our team today. Together, we can ensure your pet stays protected at every stage of their life.

Save money, and help your pet live a happy and healthy life with Vital Pets Club, by Roundwood Vets. Learn more.

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