Cat Vaccinations: Schedule, Core Vaccines & Costs
Medical note
These guide articles do not replace veterinary advice, diagnosis or treatment. If anything is unclear, or in case of acute symptoms or an emergency, please contact a vet, an emergency veterinary service or an animal hospital immediately.
Feline distemper, cat flu, rabies, and feline leukemia: learn which vaccinations are due when, the differences for indoor vs. outdoor cats, and what it costs.
Vaccinations are among the few things that reliably prevent severe cat diseases. Which vaccinations are beneficial depends on your cat's lifestyle: outdoor cats interact with other animals, while indoor cats are less exposed – but both should be protected.
Which Vaccinations Does a Cat Need?
| Vaccination | For Whom | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Feline Distemper (Panleukopenia) | All cats | Highly contagious, often fatal viral disease; the pathogen can survive in the environment for a long time |
| Cat Flu (Herpes- and Calicivirus) | All cats | Can become chronic and permanently damage eyes and respiratory tract |
| Rabies | Outdoor cats, international travel, boarding kennels | Mandatory for international travel within the EU, often required by boarding facilities |
| Feline Leukemia (FeLV) | Outdoor cats, young cats with contact to others | Transmitted via saliva and close contact, permanently weakens the immune system |
Indoor Cat Doesn't Mean Unprotected
Feline distemper pathogens can be brought into the home via shoes and clothing. Therefore, core protection against feline distemper and cat flu is also recommended for strictly indoor cats.
Vaccination Schedule for Kittens
| Age | What's Due |
|---|---|
| from 8 weeks | First vaccination against feline distemper and cat flu, FeLV if needed |
| from 12 weeks | Second vaccination, plus rabies if outdoor access or travel is planned |
| from 16 weeks | Further vaccination to complete the primary course |
| at approx. 15 months | First booster – protection is considered stable only after this |
Afterward, boosters follow at intervals determined by your veterinary practice, depending on the vaccine, lifestyle, and age. For cat flu, outdoor cats often receive boosters more frequently than for feline distemper.
What Does a Cat Vaccination Cost?
Veterinary costs in Germany are regulated by the Fee Schedule for Veterinarians (GOT). Practices may charge a higher rate depending on effort, time of day, and region, so there's no fixed price. A vaccination appointment usually consists of three components:
- General examination before vaccination
- Vaccine (varies depending on the combination)
- Administration of the vaccination, plus VAT if applicable
When scheduling an appointment, ask for an estimate for the specific vaccination combination planned – reputable practices will give you a price range beforehand. It's also wise to sum up the annual costs for vaccinations, deworming, and preventive care to ensure they are accounted for in your household budget.
Keeping Track of Vaccination Passports and Appointments
- Check every entry in the vaccination passport: date, vaccine, batch sticker, stamp, and signature.
- Note the next appointment immediately instead of waiting for a reminder from the practice.
- Create a photo or scan of the vaccination passport – helpful in case of loss, travel, or boarding.
- For multiple cats, bundle appointments to save trips.
Frequently asked questions
What vaccinations does an indoor cat need?
Feline distemper and cat flu are recommended because pathogens can enter the home via clothing and shoes. Rabies and feline leukemia are primarily relevant for outdoor cats, travel, and boarding stays.
At what age can kittens be vaccinated?
Typically from 8 weeks of age, followed by further appointments until about 16 weeks, and a booster around 15 months.
Is rabies vaccination mandatory for cats?
In Germany, there is no general mandatory vaccination for cats, but a valid rabies vaccination is required for travel within the EU. Many boarding facilities also require it.
What does a cat vaccination cost?
A fixed price cannot be given: costs are based on the Fee Schedule for Veterinarians and consist of the examination, vaccine, and administration. Ask the practice for an estimate beforehand.