If you have a dog or cat, you know animal vaccines are an integral part of pet care. However, you may not be sure about how often your pet should be vaccinated, as well as which they need. A trusted resource for pet owners in Hilo, HI, Maika‘i Veterinary Clinic explains the vaccination schedules for both dogs and cats below.

Dogs

Vaccines are broken down according to age. From six to eight weeks, puppies typically receive the DA2P core shot for parvovirus, distemper, and adenovirus. They may also receive non-core shots for canine flu and kennel cough. The next round of shots occurs at nine to 12 weeks, at which time puppies will receive boosters for the above shots. 

Booster shots will continue into the 12 to 16 week range, but other vaccinations can also be given at this time. Rabies is a core animal vaccine usually administered at around 13 weeks of age. Puppies should also receive shots for leptospirosis  and Lyme disease at this time. At 15 to 17 weeks, boosters will be given for parvo, leptospirosis, and Lyme.

Cats

At six weeks, kittens should receive core vaccinations for a group of diseases: feline rhinotracheitis, feline calicivirus, and feline panleukopenia, or FVRCP. A rabies vaccine must also be administered, but this usually takes place around 12 weeks of age. Kittens can also receive other non-core shots for feline leukemia and feline immunodeficiency virus.

Upon reaching adulthood, your cat will need boosters for all core vaccines once a year. Boosters for non-core shots can also be administered on a yearly basis, but usually only for cats with a higher risk. Your veterinarian can explain risk factors to determine the right vaccination schedule for your cat. 

When your dog or cat needs preventative measures like animal vaccines, Maika‘i Veterinary Clinic can help. They offer innovative services like laser and stem cell therapies, internal medicine, and orthopedic procedures. Plus, they care for other small animals like birds and fish, as well as exotic pets. Call (808) 959-2273 today to schedule an appointment at the Hilo clinic, and visit the website to learn more about their services.