Vaccination is one of the most effective ways to prevent or reduce the impact of infectious diseases in cats and kittens. Like all veterinary procedures, vaccinations carry some risks; however, their benefits far outweigh potential side effects, especially when considering the severe illnesses or fatalities these diseases can cause.
Some of these illnesses can even pose risks to pet owners. Since cats can contract and spread certain diseases early in life, your kitten should receive its first vaccine by the age of four months. If you’re searching for a veterinarian in the San Jose, CA, area, consider bringing your feline friend to our compassionate team at Oak Grove Veterinary Hospital.
Required and Recommended Vaccines
The State of California does not mandate rabies or other vaccinations for cats, though local regulations may vary. Nevertheless, the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) and the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) recommend vaccinating pets based on factors such as home and travel locations, outdoor activities, and exposure to other animals.
Core and Non-Core Vaccines
Veterinarians commonly categorize vaccines as either core or non-core. Core vaccines, such as those for rabies and distemper, are essential for every cat, regardless of their lifestyle. Non-core vaccines, while not universally necessary, can be beneficial depending on your cat's environment, travel habits, and risk of exposure to specific diseases.
Before recommending non-core vaccinations, your veterinarian will likely discuss your cat’s expected activities and living conditions to weigh the benefits and risks. Vaccines remain a practical and preventive solution to protect most cats from potentially life-threatening diseases.
Cat and Kitten Vaccination Schedules
Although kittens receive some immunity through their mother’s milk, this protection diminishes by the time they are six to eight weeks old. This makes it critical for kittens to begin their initial vaccination series during this window. Additional non-core vaccines may also be administered during the first six months of life, depending on individual needs.
Once your cat has completed its initial vaccinations, it will enter a maintenance phase. During this phase, boosters and other vaccines are given as part of routine annual wellness care. Staying current with vaccinations is vital to ensure your cat remains protected throughout its life.
Contact Oak Grove Veterinary Hospital
If you live in or near San Jose, CA, and are looking for a veterinarian to provide expert care for your cat, the team at Oak Grove Veterinary Hospital is here to help. Call us at (408) 227-1661 to schedule an appointment with a veterinarian near you or use our convenient online request form.