Welcoming a new puppy or kitten into your home is an exciting and joyful experience. As a pet parent, one of the most important steps you can take to ensure your furry friend’s health is staying on top of their vaccination schedule. Vaccinations are essential for preventing life-threatening diseases and ensuring your pet grows up strong and healthy. At True Animal Vet in The Woodlands, Texas, we’re here to partner with you every step of the way.
Vaccinations protect your pet from serious and potentially fatal illnesses such as distemper, parvovirus, and feline leukemia. They also help reduce the spread of infectious diseases to other animals in your community. Beyond protecting your pet, vaccinations contribute to public health by preventing zoonotic diseases that can be transmitted from animals to humans, like rabies.
Puppies have a vulnerable immune system, which is why early and consistent vaccinations are critical. Below is a general guideline for your puppy’s vaccination schedule:
6–8 Weeks:
• Distemper
• Parvovirus
• Bordetella
10–12 Weeks:
• Distemper
• Parvovirus
• Adenovirus (Hepatitis)
• Leptospirosis (optional, based on lifestyle risk)
14–16 Weeks:
• Distemper
• Parvovirus
• Rabies (legally required in most states)
1 Year and Beyond:
• Booster shots for core vaccines
• Optional vaccines (e.g., Influenza, Leptospirosis, Lyme, Rattlesnake, Bordetella, depending on your location and pet’s exposure risks)
Just like puppies, kittens require a structured vaccination schedule to build immunity against common diseases. Here’s an outline of the recommended timeline for kittens:
6–8 Weeks:
• FVRCP (feline viral rhinotracheitis, calicivirus, panleukopenia)
10–12 Weeks:
• FVRCP booster
• FeLV (feline leukemia virus, especially for outdoor cats or multi-cat households)
14–16 Weeks:
• FVRCP booster
• Rabies
1 Year and Beyond:
• Annual FVRCP and FeLV boosters
• Rabies booster
At True Animal Vet, we understand that every pet is unique, and their vaccination needs may vary based on factors like age, breed, lifestyle, and potential exposure to other animals. Our veterinary team is here to help you navigate your puppy or kitten’s vaccination schedule and ensure they receive the best care.
When you partner with True Animal Vet, you gain access to personalized care tailored to your pet’s needs. From thorough wellness exams to friendly reminders for follow-up visits, we make it easy to keep your new companion on track for a healthy future.