Lake Pine Animal Hospital - Kitten Care 101: Essential Vaccination Guide

Laying the Foundation for a Healthy Life: Vaccinating Your Kitten


Vaccinations are a critical part of your kitten's health care regimen. They provide protection against various infectious diseases, ensuring not only the wellbeing of your kitten but also that of other animals they may encounter. To achieve the best immunity, adhering to the recommended vaccination schedule with timely boosters is important.

Key Vaccinations for Your Kitten


FVRCP (Feline Rhinotracheitis, Calicivirus, Panleukopenia):

  • First Vaccine at 8 Weeks: Followed by boosters every 21 to 28 days until 16 weeks of age. A booster is also needed 1 year after the last kitten vaccine.
  • Feline Rhinotracheitis: A serious respiratory infection, often fatal in kittens. Symptoms include sneezing, decreased appetite, fever, and discharge from eyes and nose.
  • Calicivirus: Causes respiratory infections and can leave cats more susceptible to other serious infections. Symptoms are similar to Rhinotracheitis, with possible ulcers in the mouth.
  • Panleukopenia: Highly contagious and often fatal, causing loss of appetite, vomiting, and diarrhea.


Feline Leukemia (FeLV):

  • Initial Vaccine as Early as 10-12 Weeks: Followed by a second booster 3-4 weeks later. Another booster is needed at 1 year of age.
  • Impact: Causes serious diseases and decreases immune response, potentially leading to leukemia. Transmitted through direct contact with infected blood and saliva.

Feline Leukemia/Feline Immunodeficiency Virus Test:

  • Recommended when introducing a new cat to your household and annually for outdoor cats.

Rabies:

  • A rare but fatal virus affecting the central nervous system, transmissible to humans.
  • First vaccination given at or after 12 weeks of age.

We're Here to Support You and Your Kitten!


Owning a pet is a rewarding journey filled with responsibilities. At Lake Pine Animal Hospital, we're dedicated to assisting you every step of the way in ensuring your kitten grows into a healthy and happy cat.

Your kitten's health is our joy and commitment at Lake Pine Animal Hospital.

If you have questions and you'd like to reach out to us, you can call us directly at (919) 380-1157, or you can email us at [email protected]. Don't forget to follow us on social media Facebook, Instagram.