Cat and Dog Vaccination Schedule: A Guide for Your New Pet

Protecting a new pet from infectious diseases is one of your first responsibilities. Vaccines are a cornerstone of a long, healthy life.

Schedules vary with age, health, lifestyle and vaccine brand. This is a general overview; your vet sets the right plan.

Why vaccinate?

Immunity from the mother's milk fades within weeks. Diseases such as parvovirus, distemper or feline panleukopenia can be severe in young animals, and rabies threatens people too.

The first vet visit

Your vet performs a general check, looks for parasites, plans vaccinations and advises on diet and neutering. Bring any previous records.

Typical puppy schedule

• 6–8 weeks: first combination vaccine (distemper, parvovirus, hepatitis, parainfluenza).
• Following weeks: boosters, usually 3–4 weeks apart.
• Kennel cough: for dogs in contact with many others.
• Rabies: usually after 12 weeks.
• Annual boosters as advised by your vet.

Typical kitten schedule

• 8–9 weeks: first combination vaccine (panleukopenia, herpesvirus, calicivirus).
• 3–4 weeks later: booster.
• FeLV: for outdoor cats, after testing.
• Rabies: usually after 12 weeks; then regular boosters.

Indoor cats need vaccines too – some viruses travel on shoes and clothes.

Parasite prevention

North Cyprus's warm climate keeps fleas, ticks and mosquitoes active for a long season. Regular internal and external parasite treatments are essential; ask your vet about heartworm protection for dogs.

On vaccination day

• Tell your vet if your pet is unwell; the vaccine may be postponed.
• Mild tiredness or soreness for a few hours is normal.
• Facial swelling, breathing difficulty or repeated vomiting need urgent attention.
• Keep puppies away from unknown dogs until the series is complete.

Records and reminders

Every vaccine goes into your pet's vaccination card. Add the next dates to your calendar; clinics that track vaccines can also email you a reminder. Travel abroad may require up-to-date rabies vaccination.

Plan the schedule with your vet and never skip annual checks. Compare vet clinics near you and book online.