Core vaccines for cats include:

  • Feline viral rhinotracheitis (FVR) — FVR is caused by a feline herpesvirus infection, which can be lifelong. The disease causes chronic respiratory problems and corneal ulcers.
  • Calicivirus — This disease causes respiratory infection that is characterized by painful oral and nasal ulcers.
  • Panleukopenia — Panleukopenia causes white blood cell deficiencies and severe gastrointestinal illness. Kittens exposed in utero may develop lifelong neurologic deficits from inadequate brain development.
  • Rabies — This deadly disease is mainly transmitted by wild animals, but even indoor cats can be exposed if a bat enters your home. Rabies vaccination is required by law because the disease is fatal to animals and people.
Optional, risk-based vaccines for cats include:
  • ChlamydiaChlamydophila felis is a bacteria that causes a respiratory infection in cats that is characterized by ocular swelling and discharge.
  • Feline leukemia — Feline leukemia causes immunosuppression, making cats susceptible to normally minor infections. The chronic disease also causes cancer in many cats.