Core vaccines protect against widespread, serious diseases and are recommended for all pets. Non-core vaccines depend on lifestyle, geography, and exposure. The puppy/kitten series begins at 6-8 weeks with boosters until 16 weeks.
Core vaccines protect against diseases that are widespread, cause significant morbidity or mortality, or pose a public health risk. They are recommended for all dogs or all cats. Non-core vaccines are recommended based on individual risk factors: lifestyle, geography, and exposure.
Dogs—Core: DAP (distemper, adenovirus, parvovirus, parainfluenza), Rabies. Non-core: Leptospirosis, Lyme, Bordetella, Canine influenza.
Cats—Core: FVRCP (herpesvirus, calicivirus, panleukopenia), Rabies, FeLV (kittens and outdoor cats). FeLV may be optional for strictly indoor adults.
Maternal antibody interference means that a single dose of vaccine in a young animal may not induce immunity. The series typically begins at 6-8 weeks of age, with boosters every 2-4 weeks until 16 weeks of age. The final dose should be given at or after 16 weeks to ensure adequate immune response after maternal antibodies have waned.
| Age | Puppy Vaccines | Kitten Vaccines |
|---|---|---|
| 6-8 weeks | DAP | FVRCP |
| 10-12 weeks | DAP, Leptospirosis (if indicated) | FVRCP, FeLV (if indicated) |
| 14-16 weeks | DAP, Rabies, Leptospirosis, Lyme/Bordetella (if indicated) | FVRCP, Rabies, FeLV (if indicated) |
| 1 year | DAP booster, Rabies booster | FVRCP booster, Rabies booster |
Serologic titers (e.g., for distemper, parvovirus, rabies in some jurisdictions) can demonstrate immunity and may be used to extend revaccination intervals. AAHA guidelines support 3-year intervals for DAP and rabies when appropriate vaccines are used and local laws allow. Titer testing is particularly useful for dogs with vaccine reactions or when owners prefer to minimize vaccination. Titers do not replace initial vaccination; they are for assessing immunity in previously vaccinated animals.
Ask the General Vet AI or Feline Medicine Specialist about vaccination protocols and timing for your pet.
Guidelines evolve. Stay current with AAHA Canine Vaccination Guidelines and AAFP Feline Vaccination Advisory Panel recommendations. Geographic disease prevalence, emerging pathogens, and new vaccine products may influence protocols. Individualize every vaccination plan based on the pet's age, health, lifestyle, and local regulations.
- Core—DAP + Rabies (dogs); FVRCP + Rabies + FeLV (cats).
- Series—6-8 weeks start, boosters every 2-4 weeks until 16 weeks.
- Titers—can extend intervals; 3-year DAP/rabies when allowed.
- Individualize—age, health, lifestyle, local regulations.
- Stay current—AAHA and AAFP guidelines evolve.