Kitten Vaccines & Preventive Care

Kitten Vaccines & Preventive Care

Kittens need a series of vaccines and preventive care visits during their first few months to help protect them as their immune systems develop. We’ll guide you based on your kitten’s age, lifestyle, and risk factors here in the Portland area.

Kitten getting vaccinated

Recommended Kitten Vaccine Schedule

  • 8 weeks: FVRCP
  • 12 weeks: FVRCP + FeLV (Dose 1, if recommended)
  • 16 weeks: FVRCP + Rabies + FeLV (Dose 2, if applicable)
  • 1 Year: Booster visit
  • Ongoing: Core vaccines every 1–3 years depending on vaccine and lifestyle

Your kitten's exact schedule may vary slightly based on age at their first visit and previous records.

Core Vaccines

  • Protects against feline viral rhinotracheitis, calicivirus, and panleukopenia
  • Typical schedule: every 3–4 weeks starting around 8 weeks until 16 weeks
  • Booster at 1 year, then typically every 3 years
  • First dose typically around 16 weeks
  • Booster at 1 year, then every 3 years

    • Lifestyle Vaccines

  • Recommended for kittens and cats who go outdoors or live with other cats
  • Two-dose initial series, 3–4 weeks apart
  • Boosters may be recommended annually depending on risk
    • Kitten parasite prevention

    Fleas, Intestinal Parasites & Heartworm

    • Fleas are present year-round in the Portland area
    • Year-round flea prevention is recommended for most cats
    • Intestinal parasites are common in kittens
    • Fecal testing is recommended when adopting a new kitten or if GI signs are present
    • Heartworm can affect cats as well, though risk and prevention needs vary
    • We're happy to talk through what makes the most sense for your cat's lifestyle