Puppies and kittens get some protection from their mother at first, but it fades over their first weeks. A course of vaccinations helps their own immune system take over. Your vet sets the exact plan, but most follow the same basic shape.
A typical first course
- First visit, around 6 to 8 weeks old: a full health check and the first vaccination.
- Follow-up visits, every 2 to 4 weeks: one or two more doses, until your pet is about 16 weeks old.
- Around one year old: the first booster, then boosters on the schedule your vet recommends.
Which vaccines your pet needs depends on where you live and how your pet lives: an indoor cat, a dog that goes to daycare and a rabbit all have different needs. Rabbits have their own vaccines too.
Questions to ask at the first visit
- Which vaccines does my pet need, and which are optional?
- When is it safe to go for walks or meet other dogs?
- When should we start flea and worm treatment?
- Do you send reminders for boosters?
Bring any paperwork from the breeder or shelter to the first visit, so your vet can see what has already been given. If you are not sure where your pet is in the schedule, your vet will help you work it out.