When to Vaccinate Kittens

Bringing home a kitten is pure joy, and it also comes with a big responsibility: protecting that tiny immune system while it is still learning how to fight germs. Vaccines are one of the most effective, evidence-based tools we have to prevent serious illness in cats, especially in the first year of life.

In this guide, I will walk you through when kittens are typically vaccinated, which shots are considered core, what may be conditional depending on lifestyle, and how to make the process as stress-free as possible for you and your new best friend.

Why timing matters

Kittens are born with temporary protection from their mom called maternal antibodies. Those antibodies help early on, but they also can interfere with how well vaccines work. That is why kitten vaccines are given as a series spaced out over time.

Think of it like building a strong immune “memory.” Each booster strengthens the response until your kitten is reliably protected. One key detail: for some kittens, maternal antibodies can hang around longer than expected, which is why the timing of the final booster matters.

Core kitten vaccines

Most veterinarians follow guidelines from organizations like the American Association of Feline Practitioners (AAFP). Your clinic may adjust the schedule based on local disease risk, your kitten’s health, and their history.

FVRCP (core)

This combination vaccine protects against:

• Feline viral rhinotracheitis (often caused by herpesvirus)
• Calicivirus
• Panleukopenia (feline distemper, a life-threatening virus in kittens)

These are widespread infections, and panleukopenia in particular can be devastating in young kittens. That is why FVRCP is considered a must for nearly all cats.

Rabies (core in most areas)

Rabies is fatal and is also a public health concern. Requirements vary by state and county, but rabies vaccination is routinely recommended for kittens, including indoor-only cats, because bats can get inside homes.

FeLV (core for kittens)

FeLV (feline leukemia virus) is a little different because its “core” status depends on age. Under AAFP guidelines, FeLV is considered core for all kittens under 1 year old because kittens are more susceptible and their future lifestyle can change quickly. After the first year, FeLV becomes more of a lifestyle-based decision.

Typical kitten vaccine schedule

Always confirm timing with your veterinarian, but this is a common starting point for many healthy kittens.

6 to 8 weeks

• FVRCP first dose
• Veterinary exam, stool test, and deworming plan are often started here too

10 to 12 weeks

• FVRCP booster
• FeLV first dose (commonly recommended for kittens)

14 to 16 weeks

• FVRCP booster (many kittens continue the series here)
• Rabies (often given at 12 to 16 weeks depending on product and local rules)
• FeLV booster if started earlier

16 to 20 weeks

• FVRCP final kitten dose (important for long-lasting protection)

Why that last FVRCP timing matters: the AAFP guidelines emphasize finishing the initial FVRCP series with a dose at or after 16 weeks (often up to 20 weeks) because maternal antibodies can still block earlier vaccines in some kittens. That final dose helps close the gap so your kitten is not accidentally left unprotected.

At 1 year

• Booster for FVRCP
• Booster for Rabies based on the vaccine used and local law
• FeLV booster if your cat remains at risk (and many vets recommend it even for cats that may go outdoors in the future)

After that first year, many vaccines move to an every 1 to 3 year schedule, depending on the vaccine type, your cat’s risk factors, and your veterinarian’s recommendations.

Other vaccines: when to consider them

“Non-core” does not mean “unimportant.” It means the vaccine is recommended based on lifestyle, geography, or specific exposure risk.

Bordetella, Chlamydia, and others

These are less commonly needed for typical pet cats and may be considered in certain shelter, breeding, or high-density environments. Your veterinarian can help decide if they are appropriate.

Indoor-only kittens

In many cases, yes, indoor kittens still need vaccines. Even indoor cats can be exposed through:

• A new kitten or adult cat brought into the home
• Viruses carried on shoes, hands, or clothing
• Open windows, balconies, or accidental escapes
• Bats entering the home, which is a major reason rabies is still recommended

That said, vaccine choices should always match your kitten’s real-life risk. Talk through your home setup honestly with your veterinarian so the plan is tailored, not one-size-fits-all.

When to delay vaccines

Most healthy kittens can be vaccinated on schedule, but there are times your vet may postpone a shot, such as:

• Fever or active respiratory illness
• Severe diarrhea or dehydration
• Unknown medical concerns that need investigation

If your kitten has mild sneezing or stress from a recent adoption, your veterinarian will weigh risks and benefits. The goal is to protect your kitten without overloading a body that is already fighting something.

Tip from the clinic: if your kitten is sick, call before your appointment. We can advise you whether to come in, reschedule, or switch to a “doctor exam only” visit.

After vaccines

Most kittens do great. Mild, short-lived effects can include:

• Sleepiness for 12 to 24 hours
• Less appetite for a day
• Mild soreness at the injection site
• A small, firm lump under the skin that fades over weeks

Call your veterinarian right away if you notice:

• Vomiting, facial swelling, hives, or trouble breathing
• Severe lethargy that lasts longer than a day
• Collapse or weakness

Serious vaccine reactions are uncommon, but it is always best to be cautious and get guidance quickly.

Make visits easier

Before the appointment

• Use the carrier early: leave it out with a soft blanket so it becomes a safe nap spot.
• Bring a familiar scent: a towel from home can reduce stress.
• Schedule smart: quieter appointment times can help nervous kittens.

After the appointment

• Offer a small meal and fresh water
• Keep playtime calm for the rest of the day if they seem sleepy
• Monitor for side effects and note anything unusual

Quick checklist

• Start vaccines around 6 to 8 weeks (unless your vet advises otherwise)
• Expect a series of FVRCP boosters with a final dose at 16 to 20 weeks
• Plan for rabies at 12 to 16 weeks depending on local rules and the vaccine used
• Plan to discuss FeLV as a core kitten vaccine, then reassess after the first year based on lifestyle
• Get the 1-year boosters to “lock in” long-term protection

If you are unsure where your kitten stands, bring any paperwork you have, even if it is incomplete. Your veterinarian can help you build a safe catch-up plan.

One last note from a veterinary assistant

I know it can feel overwhelming when you see a schedule with multiple appointments. You do not have to do this perfectly. You just have to do it thoughtfully. The right vaccines at the right time can spare your kitten from illnesses that are painful, costly, and sometimes tragic.

If you want, tell your vet: your kitten’s age, where they came from (shelter, breeder, stray), whether they will be indoor-only, and if there are other cats at home. That simple info helps the clinic tailor a plan that fits your real life.