Vaccinations
We often get asked, do I need to vaccinate my cat when they get older, or do I need to vaccinate my dog every year?
Pet vaccinations are the best way to protect not only your pet, but other pets too from catching and spreading infectious diseases, many of which can be fatal.
In most cases, animals receive an initial course of vaccinations a few weeks after they are born. They should then receive a booster injection once a year for life, to keep their immunity levels high.
All annual pet vaccination appointments at Rowan Vets include a nose-to-tail health check with one of our friendly Vets.
Protect your pet from diseases
Puppies & Dogs
Puppy & Dog vaccinations protect your pet from:
- Canine Parvovirus
- Canine Distemper Virus
- Infectious Canine Hepatitis
- Leptospirosis
- Parainfluenza
- Kennel Cough – this is a separate vaccine that is given via the nasal passage
A puppy’s first vaccination is usually done at 8 weeks old. They can then either be given one or two more vaccinations depending on the protocol that has been chosen by the breeder or their new owner.
Rabies is not included as a standard vaccine, but is typically required when travelling abroad.
Download our factsheet: Dog Vaccinations – The What And The Why
Kittens & Cats
Kitten & Cat vaccinations protect your pet from:
- Cat Flu Viruses (Feline Herpes & Feline Calici Virus)
- Infectious Enteritis
- Feline Leukaemia Virus
Kittens should be given their first vaccination at 9 weeks old and their second 3 weeks later. They should be kept indoors until they have received both vaccinations and have been neutered.
Feline vaccinations are important for both indoor and outdoor cats.
Download our factsheet: Cat Vaccinations The What And The Why
Rabbits
Rabbit vaccinations protect your pet from:
- Myxomatosis
- Viral Haemorrhagic Disease, both strains: VHD-1 & VHD-2
Kits (baby rabbits) can be vaccinated from 5 weeks old.
Download our factsheet: Rabbit Vaccinations – The What And The Why
Why vaccinate your pet annually
A vaccination typically protects your pet for up to 12 months. After that, your pet may be exposed to conditions that could make them very poorly. Missed booster vaccination may require your pet to begin their initial course of vaccinations again.
If you’re not sure when your dog, cat, or rabbit had their last round of vaccinations, get in touch with our Client Care team and we can check for you.
You might also be interested in;
- Learn more about what your new puppy needs
- How to care for your dog
- Learn more about what your new kitten needs
- How to care for your cat
- How to care for your rabbit
