Regular dog and cat vaccinations are an essential part of pet healthcare, which help your four-legged friend from contracting common diseases. Additionally, if you wish to travel abroad with your animals, some vaccinations are mandatory in order to get a travel health certificate.
Thanks to vaccination becoming so successful and routine in the healthcare plan of your pet, the instances of diseases that we routinely vaccinate against have declined dramatically in the past 50 years. That being said, we do still see cases of some of these diseases every year, which is why it is still important.
When to Vaccinate Your Pets
Choosing which vaccines to administer and how often varies from pet to pet and depends on their lifestyle, age and medical condition. This is a conversation that we would be more than happy to have with you, but you can also find some more general information on dog and cat vaccinations below.
Dog and Puppy Vaccinations
All puppies need to have a primary course of two vaccinations at 6-8 weeks old and then at 10 weeks old. This is comprised of a single injection at each visit, which includes Distemper, Hepatitis, Parvovirus and Leptospirosis valencies. After one year, your furry friend needs to have a booster puppy vaccination, which is then followed by annual vaccinations of a reduced number of valencies.
We would also recommend administering the vaccination against Kennel Cough, which is a single intranasal application of Bordetella and Parainfluenza components. This can also be followed by annual boosters for maximum protection.
Vaccinations for Kittens and Cats
Kitten vaccinations consist of a primary course of two injections at 9 weeks and 12 weeks old. This is a single injection at each visit which includes Herpesvirus, Calicivirus and Panleucopaenia valencies. After one year, your kitten will require a booster and then boosters again every one to three years.
Outdoor cats will also need protection against Feline Leukaemia. This can be included in the same injection as your core kitten vaccinations or added at a later date. Annual boosters of this cat vaccination are then required for maximum protection.
Vaccine Requirements for Travelling Pets
As mentioned previously, when travelling abroad with your pets, you may need extra vaccinations. It is likely that dogs and cats travelling abroad will need a rabies vaccine, but always make sure to double check the requirements for the country you’re visiting.
The Cost of Dog and Cat Vaccinations
The costs for our pet vaccinations can vary on your specific requirements and can be discussed in more detail during a consultation. However, our general prices are:
- Initial puppy vaccinations cost £44.40 for each injection
- Initial kitten vaccinations cost £42-48 for each injection
- Rabies vaccines cost £49.50
- Annual booster shots for dogs £50-65
- Annual booster shots for cats £45-52
Book a consultation online today to further discuss vaccinating your pet, or you can get in touch with us by phone or email for any questions you may have.