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Cat Vaccinations & Deworming
Clear timelines for kitten vaccines, adult boosters, and parasite control — based on age, lifestyle, and vet guidance.
Gatsou Team
· 5 min read
Core vaccines protect against FVRCP (the triple) and rabies; deworming prevents intestinal parasites. Work with your veterinarian to tailor the plan to your cat's age, lifestyle, and local risks.
1
6-8 weeks
FVRCP (1st dose). Begin deworming.
2
10-12 weeks
FVRCP (2nd dose). FeLV (1st) if at risk.
3
12-16 weeks
FVRCP (3rd dose). FeLV (2nd) if at risk. Rabies per local law.
4
16-20 weeks
Some vets give a final FVRCP in this window to ensure protection against waning maternal antibodies.
5
1 year after the kitten series
FVRCP booster. Rabies booster (per vaccine and law). FeLV booster if at risk.
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FVRCP: booster 1 year after the kitten series, then typically every 3 years per vet guidance.
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Rabies: annually or every 3 years depending on vaccine type and local regulations.
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FeLV (non-core): yearly for at-risk cats — outdoor or multi-cat exposure.
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Kittens: every 2 weeks from 2-12 weeks old, then monthly until 6 months. Fecal exams help guide treatment.
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Adults (indoor): broad-spectrum parasite control every 3-6 months; fecal test 1-2x/year.
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Adults (outdoor or hunters): monthly to every 3 months depending on risk; discuss tapeworm coverage and flea control.
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Pregnant or nursing queens: ask your vet for safe options.
Use vet-recommended products (e.g. pyrantel, fenbendazole, emodepside, praziquantel) and combine with flea control to prevent tapeworms.
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Post-vaccine reactions: facial swelling, hives, vomiting, collapse, or trouble breathing — seek urgent care.
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After deworming: persistent vomiting or diarrhea, lethargy, or blood in stool — contact your vet.
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Skip or delay vaccines if your cat is acutely ill — ask your vet first.
Frequently asked
When should kittens get their first vaccines?
Kittens start FVRCP at 6-8 weeks old, with boosters every 3-4 weeks until 16-20 weeks. Rabies is given per local law, usually around 12-16 weeks.
How often do adult cats need vaccines?
After the 1-year booster, FVRCP is typically given every 3 years. Rabies is given annually or every 3 years depending on the vaccine and local regulations.
How often should I deworm my indoor cat?
Indoor adult cats generally need broad-spectrum parasite control every 3-6 months, with a fecal exam 1-2 times a year.
Is the FeLV vaccine necessary for indoor cats?
FeLV is non-core. It's recommended for at-risk cats — those who go outdoors or live in multi-cat households with potential exposure. Indoor-only cats with no exposure may not need it.
What are signs of a vaccine reaction in cats?
Watch for facial swelling, hives, vomiting, collapse, or trouble breathing in the hours after a vaccine. These need urgent veterinary care.