Deciding whether to vaccinate your pet—and how often—is one of the most debated topics in veterinary care today. While every pet is different, and the final decision should always be taken with your vet’s guidance, understanding the basics of pet vaccines can help you make better choices.
Here’s a simple and clear guide to help you understand how often dogs and cats need to be vaccinated, why it matters, and what factors to consider.
Core vs Non-Core Vaccines for Dogs and Cats
Vaccines for pets are divided into two main types:
1. Core Vaccines
These are essential for all pets, no matter their lifestyle. They protect against serious, often fatal diseases.
For dogs, core vaccines include:
- Rabies
- Distemper
- Parvovirus
For cats, core vaccines include:
- Rabies
- Panleukopenia
- Calicivirus
- Feline herpesvirus
2. Non-Core Vaccines
These are given based on your pet’s lifestyle and environment. For example:
- Dogs: Bordetella (kennel cough) – for pets who go to daycare or boarding
- Cats: Feline leukemia virus (FeLV) – important for outdoor cats
Talk to your vet about which non-core vaccines are relevant for your pet.
Do Vaccines Cause Health Problems in Pets?
Some pet owners worry that vaccines might cause side effects like cancer or immune-related problems. There is some truth to this concern—but it’s rare.
For example, a known issue is vaccine-related fibrosarcoma, a type of cancer that can occur in cats after receiving certain vaccines like FeLV. Because of this, vets have adjusted how and where vaccines are given in cats.
But overall, the benefits of vaccines far outweigh the risks. In fact, before vaccines became common, deadly diseases like rabies, parvovirus, and panleukopenia were much more widespread. Today, thanks to regular vaccination, many pets are living longer and healthier lives.
Vaccines and Your Pet’s Lifestyle
Your pet’s daily routine plays a big role in determining which vaccines they need. Ask yourself:
- Does your dog go to dog parks, daycares, or boarding centres?
- Does your cat spend time outdoors or meet other animals?
- Does your dog go on hikes or live in an area with wildlife?
If yes, they are more exposed to diseases and will likely need more than just the core vaccines. For example:
- Dogs in areas with wildlife should get the leptospirosis vaccine.
- Cats who roam outdoors need the FeLV vaccine.
- Pets attending daycares may need proof of vaccines like bordetella.
And don’t forget: Rabies vaccination is legally required in most areas, even for indoor pets. This is because rabies is a fatal disease that can spread from animals to humans.
How Often Should Pets Be Vaccinated?
Most pets do not need yearly vaccinations for every disease. Here’s a general timeline:
- Puppy/kitten vaccines: Start at 6–8 weeks old, then boosters every 3–4 weeks until about 16 weeks of age.
- 1-year booster: After the initial puppy/kitten series.
- Every 3 years: For most core vaccines (after the 1-year booster).
- Annually: For certain non-core vaccines like leptospirosis or bordetella, depending on risk.
When your pet becomes elderly, your vet may recommend stopping certain vaccines—except for rabies, which is usually required for life unless there’s a medical reason not to give it.
What Are Antibody Titers?
If you’re concerned about over-vaccinating, ask your vet about titers. A titer is a blood test that checks your pet’s immunity to specific diseases.
- High antibody levels suggest that your pet is still protected.
- Titers are not perfect, but they can help avoid unnecessary vaccinations.
- They are usually more expensive and take a few days to get results.
This is a good option for pet owners who prefer a more tailored approach to vaccines.
Why Vaccines Are Still Important
Vaccines are a vital part of keeping pets healthy. While it’s true that some risks exist, skipping vaccines entirely can put your pet—and other animals—at serious risk. For pets in shelters, rescues, or crowded living spaces, vaccines are even more critical due to higher exposure to diseases.
The key is balance. Not all pets need all vaccines, and not all pets need vaccines every year. But every pet does need a proper vaccination plan based on their lifestyle, age, and health condition—something only a vet can guide you on.
Vaccines play a major role in preventing serious diseases in pets. While there’s no one-size-fits-all answer, working closely with your vet to create a personalised vaccine plan ensures your dog or cat stays safe and healthy.
Instead of skipping vaccines altogether, choose a smart, balanced approach that fits your pet’s unique life. With the right care, you can protect your pet while avoiding unnecessary risks.
