Vaccinations

By following a vaccination schedule recommended by your veterinarian, your pet will stay free from infectious disease throughout its life.

Some common diseases are potentially fatal for pets so regular cat and dog vaccinations are essential.

For puppies and kittens, vaccinations start early and follow a 10-week program. Both cats and dogs receive temporary protection from common illnesses from their mother’s milk which drops off when they are weaned.

Building a healthy immune system requires vaccinations early on, and regular boosters throughout your pet’s life.

Contact us if you have concerns or believe your furry companion may not have received the right vaccinations early in their lives.

Cat vaccinations

When should my cat be vaccinated?

Kitten vaccinations start at 6 weeks old and continue throughout the cat’s entire life. Kitten vaccinations generally follow an 8 to 10-week schedule:

• First vaccination: 6 weeks
• Second vaccination: 9 weeks
• Third vaccination: 12 weeks
• Fourth vaccination: 14 weeks
• Annual vaccination as an adult

Annual boosters are required after the initial cat vaccination course for your cat’s entire life.

Depending on the environment your cat will live in (indoor or outdoor) your vet may recommend a personalised vaccination schedule.

What are the vaccinations for?

The natural antibodies in cat’s milk start to build a robust immune system. However, this is not enough to protect against infections and illnesses curious cats may encounter while exploring:

• FVRCP (feline viral rhinotracheitis, calicivirus, and panleukopenia)
• FeLV (feline leukaemia virus)
• FIV (feline immunodeficiency virus)
• Chlamydophila
• Rabies

Learn more about cat vaccinations here or contact us for more information.

Dog vaccinations

When should my dog be vaccinated?

Puppy vaccinations are administered from 6 weeks old. The first course of vaccinations follows a 10-week course like kitten vaccinations, with regular boosters every year thereafter:

• First vaccination: 6 weeks
• Second vaccination: 9 weeks
• Third vaccination: 12 weeks
• Annual vaccination as an adult

Annual boosters protect adult dogs as they grow and explore their environment.

Your vet may tailor a vaccination regime to match your dog’s lifestyle. Especially social dogs, or dogs living outside of the metro area, may require additional vaccinations for the nasties they encounter.

Your best friend will forgive you for the needles when they stay disease-free and enjoy a long, healthy life.

What are the vaccinations for?

Dogs love to sniff and socialise, which means they often encounter potentially harmful bacteria in places you may not expect. The good news is, vaccinations protect your best four-legged friend from potentially fatal diseases:

• Canine distemper virus
• Canine adenovirus
• Canine parvovirus
• Parainfluenza virus
• Bordetella bronchiseptica

Learn more about puppy and dog vaccinations here or contact us to discuss a tailored vaccination regime.

Vaccinations with care

At Epsom Avenue Veterinary Clinic your pet’s health is our primary concern. We want to ensure your companion enjoys a long and playful life which is why we tailor vaccination programs to meet their unique lifestyle.

Our compassionate team of experienced vets and vet nurses will advise on the most suitable vaccination regime during your first check-up. Book an appointment or consult our team for advice on vaccinations by calling (08) 9277 2231.