21 days ago

Vaccination and Deworming for Puppies and Kittens: Schedule and Tips

Your new pet's health starts with proper prevention. This article is general information – the exact schedule must be set by your vet according to age, health and the risks in your area.

Deworming

Puppies and kittens are dewormed internally (for worms) for the first time at around 2–3 weeks of age and then every few weeks until they are 3–6 months old, as your vet advises. External parasite control (fleas, ticks) is especially important in the warm months.

Core vaccines for puppies

The first combined vaccine (against distemper, parvovirus, hepatitis and others) is usually given at about 6–8 weeks, followed by a booster 3–4 weeks later and another at 12–16 weeks. The rabies vaccine is compulsory and is given after 3 months of age.

Core vaccines for kittens

The combined vaccine (against feline chlamydia, calicivirus, rhinotracheitis and panleukopenia) is given from about 8 weeks, repeated after 3–4 weeks. Rabies is also recommended, especially for cats that go outdoors.

What to check when you adopt

Ask for the vaccination booklet
Check the dates of the last vaccines and deworming
If there are no documents, book a vet check in the first week

Important

Sick or not fully dewormed animals should not be vaccinated. If you adopt a small stray, have it examined and tested first and then follow your vet's advice.