Feline Vaccinations - sfahnyc.com

Client Education

Feline
Vaccinations St.Francis Animal Hospital

At St.Francis Animal Hospital Brooklyn, we believe that preventive care is the key to keeping your cat happy, healthy, and protected from serious illnesses. Vaccinations are an essential part of your cat’s healthcare plan, safeguarding them against highly contagious and potentially life-threatening diseases.

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Vaccine Information

Click the sections below to learn more about the vaccinations we offer for your pet’s health and protection.

FVRCP Vaccine (Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis, Calicivirus, and Panleukopenia)

Type: Core Vaccine
Schedule: First dose at 8-10 weeks, then every 3–4 weeks until 16–20 weeks of age; booster at 1 year, then every 1–3 years.
This combination vaccine protects against three major infectious diseases:
Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis (FHV-1): Caused by feline herpesvirus, this disease affects the respiratory tract, causing sneezing, nasal discharge, conjunctivitis, and sometimes fever or loss of appetite.
Calicivirus (FCV): Another common cause of respiratory infections, this virus may also lead to mouth ulcers, gum disease, and in some cases, lameness or pneumonia.
Panleukopenia (FPV): Also known as feline distemper, it is a highly contagious and often fatal disease that affects the gastrointestinal tract, immune system, and bone marrow. It causes vomiting, diarrhea, severe dehydration, and even sudden death in kittens.

Rabies Vaccine

Type: Core Vaccine (and legally required in most areas)
Schedule: First dose around 12–16 weeks of age; booster at 1 year, then every 1–3 years depending on the vaccine used and local laws.
Rabies is a fatal viral disease that affects the central nervous system of mammals, including humans. It is transmitted through the bite or saliva of an infected animal. Rabies vaccination is mandatory in many regions and essential for public safety.

Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV) Vaccine

Type: Non-Core (Recommended for kittens and outdoor/at-risk cats)
Schedule: Two initial doses 3–4 weeks apart, starting at 8–12 weeks; booster at 1 year, then every 1–2 years depending on risk.
Feline Leukemia Virus is a contagious disease that weakens the immune system, making cats susceptible to other infections, anemia, and certain cancers. While indoor-only cats are at low risk, FeLV vaccination is strongly recommended for kittens and any cat that goes outdoors or lives in a multi-cat household with unknown FeLV status.

Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV) Vaccine

Type: Non-Core
Schedule: Series of 3 doses, 2–3 weeks apart; annual boosters if continued protection is needed.
FIV is a slow-acting virus similar to HIV in humans. It weakens a cat’s immune system over time, leaving them vulnerable to chronic infections. The vaccine is no longer widely recommended due to limited efficacy and interference with FIV testing, but may still be considered for high-risk cats (e.g., those with frequent exposure to aggressive, outdoor cats).

Chlamydophila felis (Chlamydia) Vaccine

Type: Non-Core
Schedule: Initial vaccination as early as 9 weeks, with a second dose 3–4 weeks later; annual boosters if needed.
Chlamydia is a bacterial infection that causes conjunctivitis (inflammation of the eye), sneezing, and nasal discharge. It can be transmitted easily in multi-cat environments. The vaccine is generally included in combination with FVRCP for kittens in shelters or catteries.

What to Expect After Vaccination

Vaccinations play a vital role in protecting your pet against infectious and potentially life-threatening diseases. After your pet receives a vaccine, it’s important to know what reactions are normal and when you should be concerned.

Mild, Common Side Effects

Most pets experience no side effects at all. However, mild symptoms may occur within a few hours after vaccination and typically resolve on their own within 24–48 hours. These may include:

Mild lethargy or tiredness
Your pet may seem less energetic or want to sleep more than usual.

Decreased appetite
A slight reduction in appetite is normal for a short period.

Mild fever
A low-grade fever is the body’s natural response to building immunity.

Localized swelling or mild soreness at the injection site
You might notice a small lump or sensitivity where the vaccine was administered.

Sneezing or mild respiratory signs
This can happen with intranasal vaccines.

Book an appointment

At St.Francis Animal Hospital, we provide compassionate, lifelong care for your pets in Brooklyn and surrounding areas. Call or text us today to book your visit!

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7303 13th Ave Brooklyn, NY 11228

Phone: (718) 621-1629

Monday : 10 AM–5 PM
Tuesday : 10 AM–5 PM
Wednesday : Closed
Thursday : 10 AM–3 PM
Friday : 10 AM–5 PM
Saturday : 10 AM–4 PM
Sunday : 9 AM–2 PM