Pet vaccinations explained

Vaccination protects against diseases that are still circulating and still kill.

Dogs

Core vaccines cover distemper, hepatitis, parvovirus and leptospirosis. Kennel cough is often required by boarding kennels, daycares and some group walkers.

Cats

Core vaccines cover cat flu, feline infectious enteritis and, for cats going outside, feline leukaemia virus.

Timing

Puppies and kittens have a primary course from around eight weeks, then a first booster at a year, then boosters at intervals your vet will advise. Not everything is needed annually.

Titre testing

Blood tests can show existing immunity for some diseases. Discuss it with your vet if you prefer to reduce unnecessary vaccination.