What vaccines do cats need to get?

Cats need to get the feline triennial vaccine, which usually requires two to three doses in the first year, depending on the vaccine brand. Rabies vaccine only requires one dose. After that, cats need to get one dose of the preventive vaccine and one dose of the rabies vaccine each year. If there are children and women in the household, doctors usually recommend getting the toxoplasmosis vaccine as well.

Where to give cats shots

Cats' shots can be given intradermally, intramuscularly, or intravenously. For intradermal injection, choose a loose skin area with less vascular tissue, such as the neck or back. For intramuscular injection, select a muscle-rich area without large blood vessels, such as the hip or thigh. For intravenous injection, choose the posterior limb lateral small saphenous vein or anterior limb medial cephalic vein.

When to give cats shots

Cats can get their first vaccine at 8 weeks old. The first year of vaccination requires three doses, with a 21-day interval between each dose to achieve an ideal immune response. Rabies vaccine can be given to cats aged 3 months and older. Cats then receive a booster dose one month before the anniversary of the previous vaccination to maintain immunity.

Precautions after cat vaccination

After vaccination, stay at the clinic for observation for half an hour, and leave only if there are no adverse reactions. Avoid giving cats baths for ten days after vaccination and try to avoid taking them outside unless it's an emergency. Record the vaccination date and follow the doctor's instructions for subsequent doses. If symptoms such as fever, vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, difficulty breathing occur, do not self-medicate; consult a veterinarian promptly. Avoid vigorous exercise for a week and refrain from excessive play with the cat during this time.