Indoor cats still need vaccines. Even if they never go outside, core vaccines protect against diseases that can spread indoors and can be required by local laws or housing facilities. Regular boosters are important to maintain protection over time. Key points
- Core vaccines typically include protections against panleukopenia, calicivirus, rhinotracheitis, and rabies. These are recommended for most cats, including indoor ones, and help prevent serious illnesses even in a controlled home environment.
- Non-core vaccines may be considered based on risk factors such as exposure to other animals, visits to boarding facilities, or regional disease prevalence (e.g., feline leukemia or Bordetella). Your veterinarian can tailor recommendations to the specific home situation.
- Rabies vaccination is often legally required for cats in many places, regardless of outdoor access, and provides crucial public health protection.
- A typical vaccination schedule starts in kittenhood with a series of shots, followed by annual or triennial boosters depending on the vaccine type and local guidelines. Some vaccines are given in combination for efficiency.
- Regular veterinary check-ups are important even for indoor cats. A vet can assess overall health, parasite prevention, dental care, weight management, and catch potential issues early.
What to do next
- Schedule a consult with your veterinarian to review your indoor cat’s vaccination history and establish a current, location-appropriate schedule.
- Bring any records you have (kitten vaccination series, prior boosters, and rabies certificate) to the appointment.
- Ask about booster timing, age-specific needs, and whether any non-core vaccines are advisable for your cat’s lifestyle or region.
If you’d like, provide your country or state/region, and I can outline typical core vaccine recommendations and legal requirements relevant to your location.
