Answers for Common Questions About Puppy and Kitten Vaccinations

Your new pup or kitty deserves to be healthy and happy. Vaccinations can make that happen by protecting them from diseases by exposing your pet to a weakened or inactive form of the virus or bacteria.
 

Puppies and kittens need vaccinations more than adult pets because their immune systems are not fully developed yet. They also like to mingle with other animals, which puts them at greater risk of communicable disease. Vaccinations can help your pet build their immunity and stay healthy.
 

What Are Vaccines, and How Do They Work?

Vaccines train your pet’s immune system to combat germs that cause diseases. They contain antigens, which are pieces of the germ that trigger the immune system. When your pet gets a vaccine, their immune system makes antibodies to attack the antigens that protects your pet from the disease in the future. Different diseases need different vaccines. Most vaccines are injections, but there are nasal/oral drops. Some vaccines need one dose, while others need more doses or boosters.
 

When Should You Vaccinate Your Puppy or Kitten? And How Often?

Puppies and kittens need vaccinations in their first four months. They are born with some protection from their mother’s milk, but it goes away as they grow. Your pet’s age, health, lifestyle and risk of exposure affect the timing and frequency of vaccinations.
 

As your veterinarian, we are your pet’s health partner. It’s our job to help you pick the right vaccination plan for your pet. We can also remind you when to bring your pet in for shots. However, a general guideline is that puppies should get their first vaccines at six to eight weeks old, then two or three more every three to four weeks until they are 16 weeks old. They should also get a rabies shot between 12 to 16 weeks old.
 

Kittens should get their first vaccination at eight to nine weeks old, then two more every three to four weeks until they are 12 weeks old. They should also get a rabies shot at 12 weeks old.
 

Puppies and kittens need booster shots every year or every few years, depending on the vaccine and your pet’s risk of exposure.
 

What Are the Benefits of Vaccination?

• Protect your pet from the many diseases that can harm or kill them.

• Protect you and your family from diseases that animals can pass to humans, such as rabies.

• Save you money, time and heartache by preventing diseases.

• Help stop infections from spreading among animals.
   

What Are the Risks?

• Mild symptoms, such as soreness, fever or allergic reactions.

• Rare but serious complications, such as severe allergic reactions, immune diseases or tumors in cats.

• Failure due to factors like age, health status or interference from maternal antibodies.
   

How Much Does Vaccination Cost?

Vaccine type, dose, clinic, and discounts affect the cost of vaccines. However, vaccinations are a good investment for your pet’s health and happiness. It prevents expensive treatments for avoidable diseases.
 

Where Can You Get Your Pet Vaccinated?

Choose a trusted, licensed, and hygienic veterinary hospital, like Animal Hospital of Humble. Schedule an appointment for a physical exam and a vaccination consultation so we can check your pet’s health and create a vaccination plan. Be sure to check in with us regularly to track your pet’s progress and vaccination schedule.
 

Conclusion

Vaccination can shield your furry friends from many diseases. It can help them enjoy a long and healthy life with you and your family. But the schedule is different for every pet. It would be best to talk to us about the best vaccination plan for your pet.
 

For more on pet vaccination, visit Animal Hospital of Humble at our Humble, Texas, office. Call (281) 812-1960 to schedule an appointment today.