What Vaccinations Do Puppies and Kittens Need?

When welcoming a new puppy or kitten into your home, keeping them healthy and protected from preventable diseases is a top priority. One of the best ways to protect your furry friend is through timely vaccinations. Let’s explore the essential vaccines for puppies and kittens, the diseases they prevent, and why staying on schedule is crucial for their well-being.
 

Why Vaccinate Puppies and Kittens?

Puppies and kittens have immature immune systems, making them more susceptible to various diseases. Vaccinations introduce safe versions of pathogens to help your pet’s body develop immunity without getting sick. By following a vaccination schedule, you provide your pet with the best chance for a long, healthy life.
 

Essential Vaccinations for Puppies

1. Distemper, Hepatitis, Parvovirus (DHPP)
 

• What it prevents: This combination vaccine protects against four severe diseases: distemper, adenovirus (hepatitis), parvovirus, and parainfluenza.
   

• Schedule: Typically, puppies should receive their first DHPP shot around 6-8 weeks of age, followed by boosters every 3-4 weeks until they’re about 16-18 weeks old, with a booster after one year and then every 1-3 years.
   

2. Rabies
 

• What it prevents: Rabies is a fatal viral disease that can be transmitted to humans and other animals. It's required by law in most regions.
   

• Schedule: The initial vaccination is often given at 12-16 weeks, followed by a booster after one year and then every 1-3 years, depending on local regulations.
   

3. Bordetella (Kennel Cough)
 

• What it prevents: Bordetella is one of the most common causes of kennel cough, a contagious respiratory infection.
   

• Schedule: This vaccine can be given at 8 weeks or older, especially if your puppy will be around other dogs at parks, grooming salons, or boarding facilities. It may require annual boosters depending on exposure risk.
   

4. Leptospirosis
 

• What it prevents: This bacterial infection affects the kidneys and liver and can be transmitted to humans.
   

• Schedule: Leptospirosis is given as a series of two shots, typically starting around 12 weeks, with boosters as needed based on risk level.
   

Essential Vaccinations for Kittens

1. Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis, Calicivirus, and Panleukopenia (FVRCP)
 

• What it prevents: Known as the “core” vaccine, FVRCP protects against three contagious and potentially fatal feline diseases.
   

• Schedule: The FVRCP vaccine should start around 6-8 weeks, with boosters every 3-4 weeks until the kitten is about 16-20 weeks old, followed by a booster one year later and every 1-3 years afterward.
   

2. Rabies
 

• What it prevents: Rabies is a serious and fatal viral infection that can affect both pets and humans.
   

• Schedule: Rabies vaccinations typically begin at 12-16 weeks, with boosters after one year, then every 1-3 years depending on local requirements.
   

3. Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV)
 

• What it prevents: FeLV is a leading cause of feline illness and death, especially in young cats and outdoor cats.
   

• Schedule: The FeLV vaccine is recommended for kittens around 8-12 weeks, with a booster 3-4 weeks later, and then annually if they are at high risk.
   

Additional Tips for a Healthy Start

• Keep a record: Maintain a detailed vaccination record to track your pet’s shots and schedule.
   

• Monitor after vaccination: Watch your pet for any signs of adverse reactions, like swelling at the injection site, mild fever, or lethargy, and consult your vet if anything seems off.
   

• Socialize carefully: Until they are fully vaccinated, puppies and kittens should avoid high-risk areas, like dog parks, where they could be exposed to contagious diseases.
   

Protecting Your Pet with Vaccinations at Palisades Animal Clinic

By keeping your pet’s vaccinations up to date, you’re setting them up for a long, healthy life. At Palisades Animal Clinic, we’re here to help you navigate every stage of your pet’s healthcare. 
 

Schedule a vaccination appointment at Palisades Animal Clinic and give your puppy or kitten the healthy start they deserve. Contact our facility in Pacific Palisades, California, by calling (424) 402-5800 to keep your pet safe and strong.