Why Are Vaccines Important for Puppies & Kittens?
Newborn puppies and kittens receive some immunity from their mother’s milk, but this protection is temporary. It’s unknown exactly when maternal immunity fades, which is why a proper vaccination series is necessary to prevent dangerous infections.
Vaccines work by stimulating your pet’s immune system to recognize and fight diseases before exposure occurs. Without vaccines, young pets are highly susceptible to serious and sometimes fatal illnesses.
A proper vaccination schedule also ensures:
- Stronger immune response as maternal antibodies wear off
- Long-term disease protection
- Prevention of disease spread to other animals
- Compliance with state rabies laws
To learn more about preventative wellness care, visit our Preventative Care & Vaccines Services page.
Puppy & Kitten Vaccination Schedules
When Should Puppies & Kittens Start Vaccines?
Puppies and kittens should begin their vaccination series at 6-8 weeks of age, receiving boosters every 2-3 weeks until 16 weeks of age. This ensures they build a protective level of immunity as maternal antibodies decrease.
Core Vaccines for Puppies
The core vaccines for puppies protect against highly contagious and serious diseases:
- DAPP (Distemper, Adenovirus, Parvovirus, Parainfluenza)
- Rabies (Required by law)
Kittens also require essential vaccinations to prevent serious infections:
- FVRCP (Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis, Calicivirus, Panleukopenia)
- Rabies (Required by law)
The first rabies vaccine is typically given at 13 weeks of age for both puppies and kittens.
For expert guidance on your pet’s vaccine schedule, book an appointment with our team through our Preventative Care & Vaccines Services.
Do Indoor Cats Need Vaccines?
Many cat owners wonder whether indoor-only cats need vaccinations. The answer is yes! Even if your cat stays indoors, they are still at risk of exposure to deadly diseases like rabies and respiratory viruses.
Why Indoor Cats Need Vaccines:
- Rabies exposure risk – Bats, rodents, or other wildlife can enter your home.
- Accidental escapes – Cats can slip outside, putting them at risk.
- Legal requirements – North Carolina law mandates rabies vaccinations for all pets.
If a cat is not up to date on rabies vaccinations and has an exposure, they are considered unvaccinated by the state of North Carolina, leading to quarantine or euthanasia protocols. Keeping your cat vaccinated protects both pets and humans.
Protect Your Pet with Timely Vaccinations
Keeping your pet up to date on vaccinations is one of the most important steps in ensuring their long-term health and safety. Our veterinarians are here to provide personalized vaccine schedules and answer any questions you have about your pet’s preventative care.
