The typical schedule
Most kittens follow this rhythm. Every vet, vaccine brand and region is a little different, so treat this as a friendly map and confirm the exact dates with your own vet.
| Kitten's age | What usually happens |
|---|---|
| 6 to 8 weeks | The first FVRCP shot, the combination that covers feline viral rhinotracheitis, calicivirus and panleukopenia. |
| 10 to 12 weeks | The second FVRCP shot. Kittens who will go outdoors or live with other cats may also start the FeLV (feline leukemia) series here. |
| 14 to 16 weeks | The final kitten FVRCP shot, plus rabies where the law or your vet calls for it, and the second FeLV dose if it was started. |
| 12 months | The first adult boosters for FVRCP and rabies. After this, most cats move to a one to three year booster rhythm. |
What FVRCP covers
The core combination shot every kitten needs, no matter their lifestyle.
- Feline viral rhinotracheitis, a stubborn flu like illness caused by a herpesvirus.
- Calicivirus, another common cause of cat flu and mouth ulcers.
- Panleukopenia, a severe and sometimes fatal illness, sometimes called feline distemper.
The FeLV question
- FeLV is recommended for kittens who will go outside, or who will live with cats whose status is unknown.
- It is usually given as two doses a few weeks apart, then boosted yearly for cats at risk.
- Indoor only cats in single cat homes often skip it. Your vet will help you decide.
Three shots in eight weeks is a lot. PetWrite keeps count.
Add each shot once and PetWrite works out the next due date for you, with gentle reminders before it arrives. Snap a photo of the vaccination card and PetWrite can even read the details for you.
Start your kitten's story freeThis guide is general information, not veterinary advice. Shot timing varies by vaccine brand, region and your kitten's health, so always confirm the schedule with your veterinarian. For adult cats, see our cat vaccination schedule.