do cats need vaccinations every year

Most adult cats that received the complete booster series of vaccines as kittens should be revaccinated one year later and then every one to three years based on a lifestyle risk assessment.

More on Cat Health

Vaccinations Are NOT Equal To Immunity

Immunity is not always created or improved by vaccinations, and there are risks involved, particularly for cats.

Although vaccinations can and do help to protect our feline companions, they are neither 100% safe nor 100% effective. The decision to vaccinate should never be made lightly.

Every cat has a unique risk of contracting a disease, and the risks associated with vaccination and the protection they provide are also unique. Vaccination should not be administered until each cat has been assessed as an individual. Ideally, before making a vaccine decision, you and your veterinarian should carefully assess your cat’s exposure risks, current health, and current immunity. It’s important to take into account the vaccine’s risks and effectiveness.

In cats, only TWO immunizations are regarded as “core”: rabies and feline distemper (Panleukopenia). Immunity to both diseases can be accomplished without annual vaccinations.

Feline Distemper is a terrible disease. Indoor cats can and do get it. Immunity is important. But many cats who receive vaccinations as young cats develop lifelong immunity. Tests for blood antibody titers can assist in determining whether your cat requires a booster shot.

Rabies: People can contract rabies as well as cats, who are particularly vulnerable to the virus. Rabies is a real threat in Colorado. There is a unique, non-adjuvanted rabies vaccine for cats, provided they are healthy enough to receive it. It is given every 3 years.

Vaccinations are medically contraindicated in sick cats. It is best to postpone vaccinations if your cat is unwell until the condition is resolved or under control. In case of a chronic illness, you might choose to completely cease receiving vaccines. If vaccination is medically contraindicated, your veterinarian can provide a Rabies Exemption Certificate in many states, including Colorado.

Your feline veterinarian is qualified and experienced to assist you in choosing the safest and best course of treatment for your cat.

FAQ

Do indoor cats need vaccines every year?

Depending on the vaccine, adult cats should get booster shots either annually or every three years. Your vet will tell you when to bring your adult cat back for booster shots.

Do cats need to be vaccinated each year?

Cats usually need ‘booster’ vaccinations every twelve months. Although getting your cat vaccinated when it is very young is very important – it is equally important to keep your cat’s vaccinated throughout it’s life.

What happens if I don’t vaccinate my cat yearly?

Cats can develop a number of illnesses if they don’t have their shots, but feline leukemia is one of the worst. This illness is a top cause of feline death with a fatality rate of nearly 90%. Feline immunodeficiency virus, also known as cat AIDS, is a serious, lifelong illness transmitted by unvaccinated cats.

When should I stop vaccinating my cat?

We must keep all of our pets safe so that we keep ourselves safe. Even for indoor cats, I recommend doing distemper shots every three years until they’re about anywhere between 8 to 10 years old.