Vaccinations
Puppy and kitten vaccination schedules
Maternal antibodies protect a neonate and also block vaccines, which is why a puppy or kitten needs a series rather than a single shot.
By Dr. Elena Rowe, DVM · Reviewed by Dr. Priya Anand, DVM, DACVIM · Updated 2026-07-21 · 8 min read
Puppies
Core DHPP vaccinations typically start at six to eight weeks and repeat every two to four weeks until at least sixteen weeks of age. Rabies is given per local law, usually at twelve to sixteen weeks.
The final dose at or after sixteen weeks is the one that matters most — earlier doses may be neutralised by maternal antibodies.
- 6–8 weeks: DHPP #1
- 10–12 weeks: DHPP #2
- 14–16 weeks: DHPP #3, rabies
- Non-core by lifestyle: leptospirosis, Bordetella, Lyme, canine influenza
Kittens
Core FVRCP follows the same maternal-antibody logic.
- 6–8 weeks: FVRCP #1
- 10–12 weeks: FVRCP #2
- 14–16 weeks: FVRCP #3, rabies
- FeLV recommended for all kittens, boosted by lifestyle
Records from the breeder
Ask for vaccine brand, lot number, date and administering person. Your vet needs that to decide whether to continue or restart a series.