Vaccination for Kittens: Practical Guide

The health of your kitten is an absolute priority. Among the essential care to provide, vaccination plays a central role in ensuring its well-being and longevity. This practical guide explains everything you need to know about the vaccination of your little cat, from its first months to adulthood.

Kitten vaccinated at the vet

Why vaccinate your kitten?

Vaccination is a preventive act that stimulates the immune system of your kitten to protect it against serious, sometimes fatal diseases. Without this protection, your little companion risks contracting infections that can:

  • Cause significant suffering;
  • Require costly treatments;
  • Reduce its life expectancy;
  • Contaminate other animals.

Did you know that even indoor kittens need to be vaccinated? Viruses can be carried on your clothes, shoes, or objects, and contaminate your pet without it ever stepping outside.

When to start kitten vaccination?

Your kitten's vaccination schedule begins in its first weeks of life:

  • Before 8 weeks: your kitten is normally protected by maternal antibodies (if its mother was vaccinated);
  • At 8 weeks (2 months): first injection for primary vaccination;
  • At 12 weeks (3 months): second injection to strengthen immunity;
  • At 16 weeks (4 months): third injection for certain vaccines;
  • At 1 year: first annual booster;
  • Afterward: boosters depending on lifestyle and veterinarian's recommendations.

If you adopt an older kitten whose vaccination status is unknown, consult a veterinarian quickly to establish an appropriate vaccination program.

Which diseases to vaccinate your kitten against?

Essential vaccines

Feline Typhus (panleukopenia)
This highly contagious viral disease attacks the digestive system and can be fatal in 50% of cases, particularly in young cats. Symptoms include:

  • Hemorrhagic diarrhea;
  • Vomiting;
  • High fever;
  • Intense fatigue.

Coryza
Often compared to a "cold," coryza is actually a severe respiratory disease caused by several viruses and bacteria. Without treatment, it can lead to:

  • Chronic respiratory problems;
  • Permanent eye lesions;
  • Painful mouth ulcers;
  • In severe cases, death.

Vaccines recommended based on lifestyle

Feline Leukemia (FeLV)
This virus weakens the immune system and can lead to cancer. Vaccination is highly recommended for:

  • Cats with outdoor access;
  • Multi-cat households;
  • Kittens likely to go outside later.

Rabies
Although France has been officially rabies-free since 2001, this vaccine is mandatory for:

  • Trips abroad;
  • Stays in boarding facilities;
  • Certain border regions.

How does a vaccination session proceed?

During a vaccination visit, your veterinarian:

  1. Examines your kitten to ensure it is healthy;
  2. Discusses its lifestyle with you to determine necessary vaccines;
  3. Administers appropriate injections;
  4. Updates its health record with dates of upcoming boosters;
  5. Answers your questions about care to provide.

Practical advice: Deworm your kitten a week before each vaccination to optimize the efficacy of the vaccines. Discover our specific selection of dewormer for cat, a powerful and effective antiparasitic.

Vaccination cost: an investment in health

The price of a vaccination session generally varies between 50 and 80 euros depending on:

  • The region where you live;
  • The vaccines administered;
  • The veterinarian consulted.

This investment remains well below the costs of treatments that would be necessary if your cat contracted one of these diseases.

Vaccination schedule: to note in your agenda

To help you follow your kitten's vaccination program, here is a practical summary:

Age Recommended Vaccines
8 weeksFirst injection: Typhus + Coryza
12 weeksSecond injection: Typhus + Coryza + Leukemia (if needed)
16 weeksThird injection for certain vaccines + rabies (if needed)
1 yearFirst annual booster
AdultBoosters according to lifestyle (every 1 to 3 years)


In summary! Vaccination is one of the most important steps you can take to protect your kitten. By following an appropriate vaccination schedule, you provide it the best chances of growing up healthy. At Zoomalia, we know how much your companion means to you. That's why we encourage you to consult your veterinarian regularly and adhere to the recommended vaccination program. Don't wait to schedule an appointment with your veterinarian and start your kitten's vaccination program. Its future health depends on it! Have you already started vaccinating your kitten? What questions do you still have on this topic? Share your experience in the comments!

Frequently asked questions about kitten vaccination

Can my kitten have side effects after vaccination?

Some kittens may experience:

- Mild fatigue for 24-48h;
- A small lump at the injection site that usually disappears in a few days;
- Sometimes a slight fever.

These reactions are normal and indicate an immune response. Contact your veterinarian if you notice more significant effects.

Should I vaccinate my indoor cat?

Absolutely! Even if it never goes out, your cat can be exposed to viruses you carry yourself. Vaccines against typhus and coryza are essential for all cats, regardless of their lifestyle.

Can a sick kitten be vaccinated?

No, vaccination requires a healthy organism to develop effective immunity. If your kitten shows symptoms, wait until it's recovered and follow your veterinarian's advice.

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