Core Vaccines and the Logic of Timing
At Fidan Veterinary Clinic in Gebze (serving Darıca, Çayırova, Dilovası and Kocaeli), the FVRCP combination protects kittens against feline herpesvirus, calicivirus and panleukopenia. Because maternal antibodies blunt the early vaccine response, a single dose is never enough and repeats up to week 16 are required.
Examination before vaccination is mandatory: fever, nasal discharge, diarrhoea or parasites postpone the schedule. A vaccine given to an unwell kitten produces no protection and raises the risk of adverse reaction.
- First dose at 6 to 8 weeks, then repeats every 3 to 4 weeks until week 16
- Rabies at 12 to 16 weeks, officially recorded as required by regulation
- Health examination and temperature check on the vaccination day
Lifestyle Vaccines and Adult Boosters
Feline leukaemia (FeLV) is not part of the core group; it is considered for kittens with outdoor access, multi-cat households or contact with an FeLV positive cat. A rapid test establishes carrier status before vaccination.
In adulthood the booster interval depends on vaccine type and lifestyle. A three-yearly protocol may suit a single indoor cat, while cats with shelter, boarding or garden access are assessed annually.
Clinical Tools
Use the clinical tools to support home monitoring decisions; the symptom triage tool helps separate urgent from routine signs.
Related Medical Departments & Clinical Procedures
| Vaccine | Disease Covered | Starting Age | Repeat Interval |
|---|---|---|---|
| FVRCP | Herpesvirus, calicivirus, panleukopenia | 6 – 8 weeks | Every 3 – 4 weeks until week 16 |
| Rabies | Rabies virus | 12 – 16 weeks | Annual, recorded per regulation |
| FeLV | Feline leukaemia virus | 8 – 12 weeks | Two doses, then risk assessment |
| Chlamydia / Bordetella | Respiratory infections | 8 – 12 weeks | Risk groups only |
| Adult booster | Core diseases | After 12 months | Every 1 – 3 years by lifestyle |
Clinical Pathway
- The kitten age, the queen vaccination history and living conditions are recorded.
- Examination and temperature check are performed and parasite control is planned.
- The first FVRCP dose and its repeats are entered into the schedule.
- Rabies is given at 12 to 16 weeks and matched to the microchip record.
- The adult booster interval is provided in writing after risk assessment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should an indoor-only cat be vaccinated?
Yes. Agents enter the home on shoes, clothing, carriers and visitors. Protection also cannot be applied retrospectively if the cat later boards, moves house or escapes.
Is lethargy after vaccination normal?
Mild lethargy and tenderness at the injection site can occur in the first 24 to 48 hours. Facial swelling, vomiting, breathing difficulty or reluctance lasting beyond 48 hours requires immediate contact with the clinic.
Why does the schedule wait until week 16?
Maternal antibodies can persist in declining levels until week 16. Because they can neutralise the vaccine, placing the final dose at or after week 16 secures protection.
What if an adult cat has never been vaccinated?
In adults with an unknown history, two core doses are given 3 to 4 weeks apart and the booster schedule then begins. FeLV status is established with a rapid test.
The information on this page is for general guidance and does not replace a physical examination.