Vaccination Schedule for Pets: What You Need to Know in 2025

Keeping your pet healthy involves more than just good food and playtime—it also includes protecting them from dangerous diseases through timely vaccinations. Whether you’re a new pet parent or just want to stay up-to-date, understanding the 2025 pet vaccination schedule is key to safeguarding your furry friend’s long-term well-being.

In this guide, we break down the latest vaccination recommendations for both dogs and cats, including core and non-core vaccines, updated veterinary insights, and tips to make sure your pet stays protected.

Vaccination Schedule for Dogs in 2025

Core Vaccines (Essential for All Dogs)

Vaccine	First Dose	Boosters	Notes
Rabies	12–16 weeks	1 year later, then every 1–3 years depending on local law	Legally required in most areas
DHPP (Distemper, Hepatitis, Parvovirus, Parainfluenza)	6–8 weeks	Every 3–4 weeks until 16 weeks, then 1 year later, then every 3 years	Combination vaccine
Leptospirosis	12 weeks	Booster 3–4 weeks later, then annually	Recommended in high-risk areas

Non-Core Vaccines (Based on Lifestyle and Location)

Vaccine	When to Consider It	Booster
Bordetella (Kennel Cough)	Dogs in kennels, daycares, or grooming	Every 6–12 months
Canine Influenza (CIV)	Dogs in high-exposure areas	Initial 2 doses, then annually
Lyme Disease	If ticks are common in your area	Booster 2–4 weeks later, then annually

Vaccination Schedule for Cats in 2025

Core Vaccines (Essential for All Cats)

Vaccine	First Dose	Boosters	Notes
Rabies	12–16 weeks	1 year later, then every 1–3 years	Required by law in many areas
FVRCP (Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis, Calicivirus, Panleukopenia)	6–8 weeks	Every 3–4 weeks until 16 weeks, then 1 year later, then every 3 years	Combination vaccine

Non-Core Vaccines (Based on Risk)

Vaccine	When to Consider It	Booster
FeLV (Feline Leukemia Virus)	Recommended for kittens, outdoor cats, or multiple-cat households	Initial 2 doses, then annually if still at risk
Chlamydia felis	For cats in multi-cat environments with respiratory issues	Booster 3–4 weeks later, then annually if needed

What’s New in 2025?

• Longer-lasting vaccines: Many newer vaccines now offer protection for up to 3 years.
• Lifestyle-based protocols: Vets are shifting toward customized schedules based on your pet’s age, health, breed, and exposure risk.
• Titer testing: Blood tests that check immunity levels are increasingly used to determine if a booster is necessary—reducing over-vaccination concerns.

Talk to Your Veterinarian

Every pet is unique. Your veterinarian will assess:

• Age: Puppies and kittens need more frequent shots.
• Medical history: Chronic illnesses may affect vaccine choices.
• Lifestyle: Outdoor access, travel, or contact with other animals changes what’s needed.

Ask your vet about:

• Using combination vaccines to reduce shots
• Possible side effects (mild fatigue, swelling at injection site)
• Titer testing options

Tips to Stay on Track with Vaccines

• Set reminders for annual vet visits
• Use a pet health app to track vaccine records
• Request a printed vaccination certificate for travel, boarding, or daycare
• Keep a digital scan/photo of your pet’s vaccine log on your phone

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