Cat vaccinations are vital to protect your pet from serious, infectious diseases. Even in Melbourne, these illnesses can lurk outdoors, at boarding facilities, or be transmitted from other cats. At Mornington Veterinary Clinic, we believe in proactive care—vaccinating your cat safeguards your cat’s health, helps create herd immunity, and reduces disease spread in the community. Vaccines contain weakened forms of viruses, and when injected, they stimulate the immune system to produce antibodies. Antibodies are the body's little protective soldiers which play an important role in fighting infections. By vaccinating your pet, you ensure your pet has a better chance at recognising and fighting these viruses should they be exposed.
What diseases do we vaccinate cats against at Mornington Veterinary Clinic?
In Australia, cats are typically vaccinated against several life-threatening diseases:
Feline Panleukopenia (Feline Distemper) - A highly contagious viral disease that affects the cat's gastrointestinal, immune, and nervous systems. Young kittens are particularly susceptible to this disease and can result in fatality.
Feline Herpesvirus (FHV-1) - A virus that causes respiratory issues, including sneezing, nasal discharge, and eye infections. It is one of the most common causes of upper respiratory infections in cats and is exacerbated during periods of stress.
Feline Calicivirus (FCV) - Another virus responsible for upper respiratory tract infections in cats, often accompanied by mouth ulcers, fever, and lethargy.
- Feline Immunodefiency Virus (FIV) - Also referred to as feline AIDS, FIV is a virus that weakens a cat's immune system. We recommend this vaccine mostly for outdoor cats who are at a higher risk of coming into contact with other cats that may be FIV positive.
How often do I have my cat vaccinated?
This vaccination schedule below helps to ensure that cats are protected from serious and potentially fatal diseases, beginning during their early months and into adulthood. The core vaccines (F3) are considered essential for all cats. Typical Core Vaccination Schedule for Kittens and Cats:
6-8 weeks of age:
First vaccination: This includes protection against Feline Panleukopenia, Feline Herpesvirus (FHV-1), and Feline Calicivirus (FCV). This is often referred to as the F3 vaccination.
10-12 weeks of age:
Second vaccination: A booster shot for Feline Panleukopenia, FHV-1, and FCV (F3 vaccination).
14-16 weeks of age:
Third vaccination: Another booster for the F3 vaccination to ensure full immunity.
16 months of age:
First annual booster: After the initial vaccinations, kittens receive their first annual booster shot for the F3 vaccine. These annual boosters will continue throughout your cat’s life to ensure ongoing immunity.
FIV Vaccinations
If opted for, the FIV vaccine protocol consists of three vaccines, 2-4 weeks apart, and then an ongoing annual booster.
Common questions about cat vaccinations
How long after a vaccine can a cat have a reaction?
Similar to humans, cats can have mild, short-lived reactions after being given a vaccination (usually within 48 hours) Fatigue, reduced appetite, slight fever, or injection-site swelling for 1–2 days can occur and we ask that you contact us if you see any of these symptoms. Serious reactions like vomiting and diarrhoea are thankfully rare. Facial swelling or difficulty breathing can be indicative of an allergic reaction and we ask that you bring your pet back to us straight away for treatment - most likely an anti-histamine injection. If a pet has any type of reaction to a vaccination, this will be noted on their history and extra consideration and care will be given to your pet for vaccinations in the future.
What not to do after a cat vaccine?
After your cat receives a vaccine, their body will be working hard to produce antibodies against the virus they've been exposed to so it's important to minimise any additional stress.
Ensure your cat has somewhere quiet and familiar to rest, if that is what they need. Each pet will be different.
Avoid any strenuous activity, travel, or major changes (e.g. moving house, diet change) for at least 48 hours.
Book any grooming appointments for at least three days after their vaccination appointment.
Monitor them closely for any of the post-vaccine reactions listed above. If you're unsure, contact the Mornington Vet Clinic for guidance and support.
At what age do you stop vaccinating your cat?
While the initial vaccines are given between 6 weeks and 16 months, ongoing vaccinations are recommended. Depending on lifestyle and risk factors, vaccines can be given anywhere every 1-3 years, with even senior cats benefitting from tailored boosters to maintain immunity. Mornington Veterinary Clinic creates customised vaccine plans for your cat’s lifelong protection.
Do indoor cats need vaccinations?
While the risk of transmitting disease is greatly minimised, indoor cats are still susceptible to airborne viruses or viruses brought into the house on clothes and/or other pets. With indoor cats, discuss your circumstances with one of our vets to work out an individual vaccination schedule for your cat.
What will happen if I don't vaccinate my cat or miss a booster?
Choosing not to vaccinate your cat puts them at higher risk of transmitting the diseases above. At Mornington Veterinary Clinic, if you miss a booster, we may restart or adjust your pet's vaccination schedule to ensure continued immunity, depending on your pet's needs and individual circumstances.
How much does it cost to vaccinate a cat in Mornington?
The cost to vaccinate a cat in Mornington can vary depending on whether your cat is a young kitten or an adult, as well as what vaccinations they are due for. Currently, our vaccinations range from $125 to $170, which also includes your pet's health check.
