Pet Vaccination Schedule

Staying on top of your pet's vaccination schedule is one of the most important things you can do for their long-term health. Vaccines protect against serious diseases — many of which are preventable entirely when boosters are kept current.

This page covers the standard vaccination schedule for dogs and cats, including core vaccines, non-core vaccines, and adult booster timelines. Always verify the exact schedule with your veterinarian — they can tailor it to your pet's age, lifestyle, and health history.

Dog Vaccination Schedule

Dogs need a series of vaccinations during their puppy months, followed by booster shots throughout their adult life. Core vaccines protect against the most common and serious diseases. Non-core vaccines are recommended based on lifestyle and location.

Puppy Vaccination Schedule

Adult Dog Booster Schedule

Cat Vaccination Schedule

Cats need core vaccinations starting as early as 6 weeks old. The FVRCP vaccine — which protects against three serious respiratory and intestinal diseases — is given in a series during kittenhood, then boosted in adulthood.

Kitten Vaccination Schedule

Adult Cat Booster Schedule

How to keep track of your pet's vaccination records

Keeping track of pet vaccines can be harder than it sounds. You leave the vet with a paper record, the next booster is 12 months away, and by the time the date arrives it has long slipped your mind — especially with three-year boosters that fall completely off the radar.

Pet Doc Pro helps pet owners organize vaccination records, set reminders before every due date, and store vet visit notes all in one place. Whether you have one pet or several, you can see exactly what is due and when without digging through paper records.

Common questions about pet vaccination schedules

What vaccinations does a puppy need?

Puppies need a series of DHPP shots starting at 6–8 weeks, with boosters at 10–12 weeks and 14–16 weeks. Rabies is given at 14–16 weeks and is legally required in most states. Bordetella is recommended for puppies that will be around other dogs.

What vaccinations does a kitten need?

Kittens need the FVRCP vaccine starting at 6–8 weeks, with boosters at 10–12 and 14–16 weeks. Rabies is given at 14–16 weeks. FeLV is recommended for kittens that will spend time outdoors.

How often do adult pets need boosters?

Core vaccines like DHPP and FVRCP are boosted one year after the puppy or kitten series, then every three years. Rabies is boosted annually or every three years depending on the vaccine type and your state's requirements. Non-core vaccines like Bordetella may be recommended every 6–12 months.

Are pet vaccinations required by law?

Rabies vaccination is legally required for dogs in most U.S. states, and in many states for cats as well. Other vaccines are not legally required but are strongly recommended by veterinarians to protect your pet's health.