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Cat Vaccinations

  • Writer: sarah martin
    sarah martin
  • Aug 7, 2025
  • 2 min read

Updated: Aug 19, 2025

Cat vaccinations are essential for protecting your cat from several potentially fatal diseases.


Core vaccines for cats include those for feline panleukopenia, feline herpesvirus, feline calicivirus, and feline leukaemia virus (FeLV).


Kittens typically start their vaccination series at around 9 weeks of age, with boosters given annually



kitten looking upwards


Core Cat Vaccines in the UK


Feline Panleucopenia (FPV):

Also known as feline distemper, this highly contagious and potentially fatal disease affects the digestive and immune systems.


Feline Herpesvirus (FHV-1):

One of the viruses causing "cat flu," it can lead to upper respiratory infections, including sneezing, runny nose, and eye and mouth ulcers.


Feline Calicivirus (FCV):

Another "cat flu" virus, it can cause similar symptoms to herpesvirus, as well as mouth ulcers and pneumonia.


Feline Leukaemia Virus (FeLV)

Feline Leukaemia Virus is a contagious virus that can have serious, long-term effects on a cat’s health. It primarily affects the immune system, weakening the body’s ability to fight off everyday infections. Over time, this makes affected cats more vulnerable to a range of illnesses, including chronic infections, anaemia, and certain types of cancer, particularly leukaemia and lymphoma.


FeLV is spread through close contact between cats, especially through grooming, sharing food bowls, or bite wounds. It’s more common in outdoor cats or those living in multi-cat households where the virus may be present.


There is no cure for FeLV, but regular veterinary care can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life. Fortunately, there is a vaccine available


If you're unsure whether your cat has been vaccinated against FeLV, or if they may be at risk, speak to us and we’ll guide you through the best options.

 

Vaccination Schedule:


Kittens:

Typically receive their first vaccinations around 9 weeks of age, with boosters 3-4 weeks later

 

Adult Cats:

Require regular boosters annually, to maintain immunity.

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