Vaccinations will protect your kitten from many common and highly contagious diseases found in the environment, some of which can be fatal. The good news is that these diseases are preventable. By following a recommended vaccination schedule guided by your vet, you can protect your kitten from the following diseases:

• Feline parvovirus
• Feline viral rhinotracheitis (herpes)
• Feline calicivirus

Kitten vaccinations typically start when they’re six weeks old. The exact schedule may vary slightly depending on your location and your vet’s chosen vaccine. However, the typical vaccination schedule includes:

• First vaccination: 6-8 weeks
• Second vaccination: 10-12 weeks
• Third and final ‘booster’ vaccination: 14-16 weeks

After this initial series of vaccinations, your kitten will need annual booster vaccinations to maintain immunity. Your vet will recommend a vaccination schedule suitable for your kitten.

Socialisation is an essential part of a young kitten’s life. During their first few months, they will learn to communicate and get along with people and other animals. Each interaction will shape their behaviour and responses to the world around them.

However, vaccinations can take up to two weeks to provide complete protection, so it’s best to avoid socialising your kitten with other cats and letting them explore the outdoors until at least two weeks after their final vaccination.

But the good news is you can start socialising your kitten at home before they’re fully vaccinated. Once they’re fully vaccinated, they’ll be ready to explore the world outside of your house and meet other cats.

Reviewed by Dr David Lee, Veterinarian

David graduated from Sydney University in 2003, with first class honours in veterinary medicine and also holds a Master of Veterinary Studies in Small Animal Medicine and Surgery. With over twenty years of experience as a veterinarian, David has worked, owned and managed a group of practices.