Kitten Vaccination Schedule in Australia

Vaccination protects your kitten against diseases that are serious and, in some cases, fatal. This is a general guide to the schedule used in Australia — your vet will confirm what is right for your cat.

What the vaccines cover

F3 is the core vaccine and covers three diseases:

• Feline panleukopenia — a severe and often fatal viral disease
• Feline herpesvirus (cat flu) — respiratory infection
• Feline calicivirus (cat flu) — respiratory infection and mouth ulcers

F4 adds feline leukaemia virus (FeLV), which is generally recommended for cats who go outdoors or live with FeLV-positive cats.

The typical schedule

• 6 to 8 weeks: first F3 vaccination
• 10 to 12 weeks: second F3
• 14 to 16 weeks: third F3
• 12 months: booster
• Then: boosters as advised by your vet, commonly every one to three years depending on the vaccine and your cat’s lifestyle

The reason there are three kitten vaccinations is that maternal antibodies from the mother can block the vaccine. The series ensures protection once those antibodies fade. This is also one reason kittens should not go to new homes before twelve weeks — see our guide to the right age to leave mum.

Do indoor cats need vaccinating?

Yes. Some viruses are airborne or can be carried in on clothing and hands, and an indoor cat who escapes or needs hospitalisation is immediately at risk. Core vaccination is recommended for all cats.

What to expect at the appointment

Your vet will examine your kitten and check weight before vaccinating. After the injection, most kittens are fine, though some are quieter than usual or a little sore at the site for a day. Contact your vet if you notice facial swelling, persistent vomiting, difficulty breathing or severe lethargy.

What our kittens have already had

Our kittens are F3 vaccinated before they leave us, and you receive a written health record with the dates. Take that record to your first vet visit so your vet can plan the remaining course — see our adoption process for details.